And the Last Whistle Blows

Quinnton, who won the Best Shooter Award tonight, focuses as he prepares to shoot a 3-pointer.

Eight kids came to the basketball camp tonight- one of whom left because he was the oldest and felt a little out of place.  The other seven were on their best behavior all night and listened well to both of the Bible/character lessons and at least attempted all of the basketball drills.  Quinnton, pictured above, proved himself to be a leader during the 3-man-weave as he helped some younger ones learn the rhythm.  

During the award ceremony, three parents or grandparents came and watched their kids or grandkids get awards and joined us eating the snacks.  Coach Peter got to help one of the kids read Scripture in front of his grandma and Coach Caitlin got to talk to another kid's mom about some of the programs that IMPACT offers and church.  DeAndre proudly introduced Coach Jacob as his "best coach."  Alexa, age four, had never received an award certificate before tonight and beamed proudly as Coach Kayla called her forward.

The kids lamented the fact that the camp was already over, and were already asking when the next Blacktop Basketball Camp would be held!

Here are some comments from the coaches: 

Kayla: You could just feel the presence of God on that court. It was such a blessing to get to work with the kids and spend timing showing them the love of Christ.

Jacob: The camp was really cool because we had the opportunity to teach kids about the game of basketball and God. 

Peter: I confess, I am not a basketball player, and I would not be nearly as much of a fan without this crazy basketball lady (Caitlin) pushing me along; but I have had a blast with this basketball camp, especially as the camp went on, and I got over making a fool of myself on the court.  The camp definitely got better as it progressed—in every way!  The kids had fun, and they experienced people caring for them for no other reason than that we are all children of God, and in response to Jesus’ love for us.  Coach Caitlin said it really well—that she loves serving a God Who can be worshipped through playing basketball, and I have to say that I wholeheartedly agree!  I can’t think of a better reason to play the game.  Thank you Caitlin, for your faithfulness in this, and thank You God, for Yours.

Caitlin: It was a huge blessing to be able to serve some awesome kids with some awesome people.  Maybe even more wonderful was to see the ways that God moved before and during the camp.  He definitely provided in unbelievable ways.  To Him be the glory!  

Thank you all so much for your prayers.  God heard and answered!  

Jacob eyes the basket as he prepares to shoot.