Kicking for Christ

Soccer is known as the most popular sport in the world, so what better tool could Many Hands for Haiti use to impact both Haitians and Americans? (Click here for video giving more detail) During the last month, several soccer initiatives have helped make God real for the people of Haiti.

The MH4H Soccer Club recently played in a tournament of 5 teams in LaCroix, Haiti. It was hosted by one of the best teams in the area, Union De Stars. Proudly wearing their previously donated uniforms, the team won their first three matches, putting them in the finals against Union De Stars. Despite beating them earlier, MH4H lost in the final, yet still claimed an impressive second place finish. Many did not expect MH4H to be as successful because we are a relatively small club, however the players were very prepared. The soccer club of 60 members is led by their Christian coach that mentors and prays for players.

While the rules of the game are the same, soccer can look different in Haiti with games often played on dirt fields. Many players can hardly afford shoes, not to mention proper soccer cleats. The Pella Soccer Club held a shoe drive from January 2-6, hoping to collect cleats that could be donated to players in Haiti.

Drop off locations were at Central Market on Central College’s campus and Sports Page Sporting Goods in Pella. The drive was a huge success as over 60 pairs of soccer shoes and 30 pairs of athletic shoes were donated along with jerseys, cones, ball bags, and soccer balls. We are extremely grateful to the Pella Soccer Club for their generosity. Later this month the Mahaska Soccer Club is holding a similar drive.

Another shoe campaign kicked off on January 7 during the Luau Launch at Pella Worksystems Rehab and Fitness. Throughout the month of January, shoes can be collected at Worksystems locations in Pella, Newton, Oskaloosa, and Des Moines. What a great chance for people in Central Iowa to help those in Haiti!