By Jeff Brumley
A group of Campbellsville University coaches are stepping off the sidelines and onto the frontlines of evangelism during a seven-day mission trip to Costa Rica, leaders of the Baptist school has announced.
The 32-member team’s trip is in conjunction with SCORE International, a Tennessee-based ministry that coordinates short-term mission trips.
As part of their assignment, coaches will coordinate athletic clinics with Costa Rican universities and private schools. The CU group also will work in orphanages, feed the homeless and wage door-to-door evangelism campaigns.
“We are excited about the opportunity that has been placed before us to share our love of Christ, and our love for sports, with the people of Costa Rica,” CU Athletics Director Rusty Hollingsworth said in a news release from the university based in Campbellsville, Ky. “Our hope is to make a positive impact on their lives, but to also experience the community and collegiality of those we work with every day.”
The trip was organized by Jim Hardy, assistant director of athletics, who said its benefits will not be for Costa Ricans alone.
“This can impact this athletic department for years to come, and that’s what we’re praying for,” Hardy said. “We’re very excited about what’s going to happen and the kind of impact this kind of trip can have on these coaches, but more importantly the kids that come into this university and athletics.”
The coaches received a send-off July 17 from the university community, including athletes, trainers and athletic department supporters.
“I am excited about this trip and very pleased to see the strength of commitment to share the love of Jesus Christ through the mission outreach of our talented coaches at Campbellsville University,” CU President Michael Carter said in a release about the ceremony.