sports leagues

Since the summer of 2008, when deepStream first came to Guatemala, we have been using sports as an avenue to connect and teach. Sport is an excellent tool that can open doors to teach about character, discipline, teamwork, honesty, and hard work. It is also a way to get to know the kids and families of the area you live in, therefore giving opportunities to share more about God's grace and love.

Now approaching the end of 2010, God is leading us towards a new long-term sports ministry. You can read more about that at www.bvboys.com.

Below are some of the highlights from various sports camps and activities we hosted during our first 2 years in Guatemala...

dSg basketball league - september & october, 2009

September 18, 2009 kicked off our first full "league." With teams varying from ages 8-13, we will gather at the community sports center in Buena Vista every Friday for the next couple of months.

The first practice was awesome! After finishing registration and organizing the teams, the rain came in hard and we all packed into the community center. Inside, we taught some basic basketball skills, and shared about Jesus with the kids. After 30-45 minutes, we were back on the court for drills and scrimmages...

The purpose of this camp is not only to teach the kids about basketball and teamwork, but to connect with them on a deeper level. After every game each team will have a short group time to talk about various topics such as respect, love, and grace. Ultimately our desire is for them to see the truth of Jesus portrayed, and learn more about HIM!

pics from week 2!

pics from week 1!

journey church basketball camp - march 28-29, 2009

We completed our first basketball camp, held by Journey Church in March of 2009. We had about 70 kids show up for the 2-day clinic. At the end of the 2nd day there was a tournament.

The kids had a blast! In addition to receiving outstanding skills instruction, they were loved and and taught about Jesus. George McCloud ran the clinic, and Mynor Leiva engaged the kids with a fun and encouraging message.

At the end of the camp, the kids were entertained with a slam-dunk contest by the coaches! The winner was too close to call (maybe you can pick for yourself from the pictures below).

Thanks to Journey Church for coming and blessing these kids. Each one went home with their own jersey, as well as having been fed drinks and snacks during the camp. Even better, these kids were loved on in Jesus name, and taught some wonderful things that they will not soon forget.

soccer camp (sponsored by the mcphail family) - dec 18-19, 2008

In late December, we held our first soccer camp in the community of Magdalena. With special permission from the mayor, we were able to use the "fancy stadium", which is typically only used once a week by the men. While all of these kids had watched many games in this stadium, it was interesting when we asked how many had NEVER played soccer in the stadium and every hand went up.

We had 120 kids show up, and were able to provide each child a jersey, and plenty of water, food, and snacks for this 2-day clinic. It was a special time of being the hands and feet of Christ. Thank you to all of the volunteers and people who helped made this happen! Pics below!