Day 7 - Panajachel, Prepa 2.0, Quick naps, Departure

Our last full day in Guatemala began like many others, earlier than we our bodies wanted it to. Breakfast was a big meal of pancakes and fresh fruit, Guatemalan coffee, and orange juice. We quickly made our way to the vans to load up our bags and head down to Panajachel for a morning of zip-lining. However, we were met with an obstacle when we got to the vans. One of our vans had a dead battery and would not crank no matter our efforts. We were given a loaner by Pedro so we could start our day without a much longer delay and we quickly made our way down the mountain to Panajachel.

Once we arrived at the zip-lining course, they rushed us through the registration, outfitted us, and gave us an orientation on the gear. Before we could catch our breath, we were on the first zip-line flying through the air over the large distance between two sides of the mountain at about 45fps. The guys had a great time walking up the mountain around waterfalls and across wood bridges but had even more fun coming down the mountain in a quick flight down a suspended cable.





After we finished the zip-line course, we quickly rode back up the mountain to change out vans and say a quick goodbye to Pedro and the people at Eagle's Nest. After some quick pictures, it was back in the van for the drive back down the mountain but this time we were headed a little closer to Guatemala City to the city of Antigua. Antigua is known for two things: short term Spanish classes and outdoor market shopping. We didn't have enough time for the language classes (or that much interest) so we quickly made our way into the markets for some negotiating and possibly, purchasing. We all had a great time trying to get coffee, jerseys, trinkets, bracelets and various souvenirs for the best price possible. Shopping and lunch had to be done quickly though, because a final game in Guatemala and a rematch with Prepa was schedule for the early evening.




We left Antigua after a little over 2.5 hours and headed for the Prepa campus for our big game. The guys knew what to expect out of Prepa at this game: new players that weren't there Monday, a larger crowd that would cheer loudly, and a group of referees that were extremely patriotic. The Prepa team did not disappoint. They entered to large cheers and even performed several chants while warming up. They began the game with the same spirit that they had shown in pre-game. However, we quickly began to build a lead and take control of the game. The guys showed, for the first time in Guatemala and possibly all summer, that they can play at a higher level as a team. The game started as a back and forth contest with our guys building a small lead. However, by halftime the lead grew to nearly 20 points. The second half began like the first half ended. We continued to build our lead and before Prepa could respond, we had built a near 40 point lead and put the game away. Everyone played hard and contributed in some way as we capped off the basketball portion of our trip with a 84-41 victory over basically, a version of the Guatemalan Junior National Team.






After the game, the guys were excited about their final meal and preparing for the return trip. Jaime had promised a special final meal and he delivered in a big way. Jaime set up reservations at a restaurant that overlooked all of Guatemala City and specialized in steaks and burgers. The guys ordered platter sized burgers and perfectly cooked steaks while enjoying the scenery and recapping the trip. It was a great experience to end the trip with and assured us of having full stomachs while finishing our packing and preparing for our early flight to Houston.

As we arrived at the Hotel Pan American, we quickly made our way to the rooms, packed our shopping bounty, and readied for a quick nap (since the wakeup call was set for 3:15am). The Hotel Pan American was built early in the 20th century and took its current name in 1942. So it was a very historical place and according to our guys, looked like something out of The Shining (historical motif in Guatemala comes across as creepy after midnight to Americans). A brief nap, lukewarm shower and Beverly Hillbilly style packing job later: we were on our way to the Guatemalan airport.

Flights were without incident, customs were uneventful (though a little more friendly than I'd like on the pat down), and before we were out of our haze of sleepiness, we arrived back in Jackson safely and sleepily. Thank you for all the prayer and support. Our team and basketball program are better for this entire experience and the constant support from our community only strengthens the relationship between our school and the people in Guatemala. God has proven Himself faithful throughout this process and hopefully we will be faithful with blessings and opportunities going forward.
Until next year,



Adios

Day 6 - Eagle's Nest, Solala

Friday began with an early wake-up call to leave Xela and head down to Lake Atitlan. The drive, as usual, was full of great scenery and many twists and turns. Once we arrived at the Eagle's Nest children's home, we met up with Pedro and Larry, the managers of the home, and collected a tentative schedule and various assignments for us to work on throughout the day. When we first pulled up to the main office there was a very large pile of sandy gravel placed next to the parking lot. After speaking with Larry, he mentioned that the entire pile needed to be moved into place so that they could begin a new phase of construction on the children's home. Also, he pointed out that the entire pile had to be moved by hand by the worker's at the facility. After a quick evaluation of the schedule and our manpower, I told Larry that our guys would be happy to help lend a hand to get this pile moved more efficiently from point A to point B. Our guys worked for the better part of the next two hours shoveling, dumping and piling up gravel in the hopes of getting the mound moved for the Eagle's Nest crew. Though the entire lump of gravel was not completely moved, the guys worked diligently together and made great progress in aiding our hosts' efforts.





After a quick lunch and recovery time, we headed over to start working with the kids at multiple venues throughout the complex. One group ran a short basketball clinic and game time at the outdoor courts. The kids had a great time running relays, shooting layups, dancing, and interacting with our guys. Towards the end of the clinic, Josh and Coach Horner gave a short encouragement to the kids about keeping the positive fun-loving attitude that they consistently exhibit and the God is pleased when His children take joy in the gifts and talents He has given them. Another group played on the playground with a group of younger kids for the better part of an hour and half. The guys later recalled how this was not only an immensely enjoyable time but also gave them a great opportunity to practice their Spanish and actually see how their presence at a place could be an encouragement to a child in need.




After all the afternoon activities began to wind down, we began preparing for the night game in Solala. Though this is a small mountain city, Solala is the home to the only team that was able to beat us last year on our Guatemala trip. Our guys played hard, even though they had a long day, and were able to come away with a debatable 12 point victory (not sure it wasn't 20 points). The game proved to be a springboard for the rest of the evening. A great meal of steak and vegetables awaited us at the Eagle's Nest when we returned and team was able to relax and reminisce about the day they had just experienced.

After dinner and showers, the team met up one last time for a group meeting to discuss the trip up to this point and perhaps, more importantly, what has this trip taught us about our team going forward? We had a long talk about our goals, vision for the upcoming season, and the best ways to make sure we are in a position to achieve the goals we have set. A simpler day logistically than most up to this point but perhaps the most profitable when experiences are discussed by the group.

Eagle's Nest is a beautiful place and the staff here are doing an amazing work for people in need in and around this community. They are consistently a light to those who need it most and place of refuge for children in need. Pray that God continues to grow their ministry and strengthens their vision for the future of the children's home and other ministries that may develop.

Adios

Day 5 - Quetzaltenango/Xela

Yesterday, we packed up our bags and left the friendly confines of Telma's house for the more adventurous surroundings of the mountains. Specifically, we drove 4 hours to our destination in Quetzaltenango, or as it is locally referred to, Xela. The drive to Xela is one of the more beautiful drives one can make in Guatemala and our guys were often awed by the mountain scenery and the vast landscapes that awaited us around nearly every corner.

We arrived in Xela around mid-afternoon and checked into our hotel, Hotel Cuesta Real. After a short time or rest and unpacking, we regrouped and made our way to a local sports complex for a kids clinic. Our local contact, Marlon, met up with us at the gym and helped us get the kids organized for the clinic. We spent about an hour and half playing basketball, doing drills and having conversations of encouragement with the 30 kids from Marlon's ministry that attended the clinic. Our guys had a great time watching the kids play and interacting with them through sports. Hollis was able to share a short testimony of how God is good in all circumstances and that hard work is beneficial to you as a person but also brings glory to God.


After leaving the sports complex, we drove across town to another smaller gym to play some quick pick-up games with a few of the leaders in Marlon's ministry. Most of the hour was spent playing basketball and shooting around in the small local gym but the last half hour a few of the guys got to encourage the leaders by talking to them about how sports can be an effective ministry tool. Tim and Josep did a great job talking to the guys about how athletics has impacted their lives and how they see it as an invaluable tool in their lives to reach others for Christ.

There is always one competitive game to gear up for and this day was no different. After leaving Marlon's group, we headed to a local league facility to play against the local club team and some of their junior team. Our guys did a great job playing hard and the old guys (Horner, Schutt, Josep and Tim) were even able to play for part of the game. Horner shared after the game about how considering Christ is something all people should do and that He has a plan for their lives.




The night ended with some out of character festivities. The Guatemalan soccer league championship was being held in Xela last night. John A. and I were able to sneak off and catch the firs half from the first row at midfield. We made sure to identify who the home team was and cheer for them throughout our visit. The supporters were going crazy the entire match and we were told later that the match was akin to what the NBA Finals are like in America. Very.Cool.Experience. Later, after dinner, a few other of the guys were able to walk over to the stadium and catch the final few minutes as Xela made a comeback to claim their second straight title.



An eventful day ended with the short drive back to the hotel and everyone quietly retiring to their room. The wake-up call was earlier than usual this morning with the drive to Solala starting around 7:45 but energy was high because the guys knew that a trip to the Eagle's Nest children's home and Lake Atitlan were next on the schedule.

We have had amazing traveling experiences and have been well received at every stop. Continue praying for openness, sensitivity, and opportunities. We all agree that the trip has flown by and we can't believe it is already Friday afternoon. Beautiful views, light shopping and a few more basketball games are all that stand between us and the end of the trip. Pray we make the most of it!

Adios from Lake Atitlan

Day 4 - Campo Real and Soccer Day!

Well, we have been staying busy since our feet hit Guatemalan soil. So busy, that as leaders we have worried about whether our guys are having the chance to let it soak in and take inventory things God may be showing them or in ways He is challenging them while we are here. Well, God showed up today in a big way!

We started our day by going to Campo Real, a private school that is bilingual and based on building leadership in a quality academic environment. Jaime's children attend Campo and he stuck with us all day taking his own videos of our guys interacting with kids that he knows closely. We were given about an hour and half at Campo to run our own basketball clinics and general P.E. classes. Our guys did a fantastic job of interacting with the kids and teaching them basketball drills and various competitions. The guys paired up into small groups and had 4 groups of kids that they interacted with and taught throughout the morning. Every group had a blast getting to play with the school kids and see them have fun by learning and competing.

Throughout the morning, there were times to share with the kids in various ways. Wic, Sam and Richard all shared with the Campo students about how working hard in school can have lasting effects on your life and that reliance on God is essential in good times and bad. Richard shared during halftime of a quick exhibition game we played against some of the Campo students, near the end of the day. He told his story of the past year and how God really built in him a desire to rely on God in times of need and how God has proven faithful now in times of good and bad.




After leaving Campo, we made a quick lunch stop before heading into the mountains to do some community work with a local church. Our guys spent the afternoon playing soccer, painting a bleacher area and having fun with the local children in the small mountain city. The games were fun and the work had a noticeable impact on the area but the most rewarding time of the day was at the end of the afternoon when we presented the kids with new soccer gear. Will Keeler and William Townsend answered a call from God and met a need by gathering and providing this community new soccer cleats, shin guards, and socks for over 50 children. Seeing the looks on the kids faces was reminiscent of the best of Christmas mornings and can only be described as awe-inspiring in every way. Will and William did an amazing work in this community and allowed us to serve and provide a community in a way unlike anything we have done before here in Guatemala. Though it was a material based service, God really moved in our guys as they saw the wonder and amazement of these little kids as they received these basic soccer elements.




As is the usual on these trips, a powerful moment of ministry is met with a challenging moment on the basketball court. We drove about an hour from the mountain village to play a teen basketball club team. The team was much smaller than our usual starting lineup but they played extremely hard. After they jumped out to a small lead early in the game, our guys settled down and begin to play some of their best basketball. After a 20+ point win was secured by our guys, Ryan was able to share his testimony with the team and encourage them to consider Christ as their personal savior and a relationship with Him.



By this time in the evening, food and sleep were quickly becoming the priority for most of our group. We made our way back to Telma's and were greeted by a hot meal and a time of relaxation and reflection. After a brief team meeting to discuss the day's events and the coming schedule, the guys retreated to their rooms for showers and sleep. Tomorrow will bring a trip to Quetzaltenango, in the mountains and some work with a local church followed by a game against a local high school all-star team. On Friday, we will make our way back down to Lake Atitlan and spend the day working and visiting with the children's home that we visited last year, the Eagle's Nest.

Pray that we keep seeing God daily in our efforts and feel His presence even in the midst of a busy schedule. Also, pray that God will make our guys sensitive to opportunities to share about Him when interacting with locals. The guys who have been sharing their testimonies and stories have done a great job and God has blessed us with so many gifts and mercies throughout our trip. Time is flying by and we are having a great time.

Adios

Day 3 - La Patria, Infantes, Villa Nueva

Usually, at the end our day I sit down to the computer and download all the pictures and videos we have accumulated and begin the process of recapping what we have done throughout the day via the blog. However, tonight I have subcontracted that job to Michael Lewis. Michael has been journaling every day anyway and thought it would fun to actually get to blog about the day. So, today's blog entry was written by Michael and I have added some pictures. Enjoy.


I know normally Coach Moore posts these things but today he has decided to let a player post on the blog. Today we started our day out with what I have heard was a fantastic breakfast of french toast, eggs, waffles, and ham. After the fabulous meal, we returned to Colegio Evangelico La Patria. This was return visit for last year and a memorable one at that because the court here has abnormally short. Literally the three-point lines were separated by no more than 6 feet. However we overcame this fact and thanks to a clutch free throw by Josh, we won the game by one. At halftime William Townsend gave a great testimony about everything Jesus Christ was for him. After the game though it became evermore apparent that his hair was a big hit with the ladies. Wirt however stole the show at La Patria as he received a love letter from some of his admirers. On the drive to the next school, we stopped at an On the Go gas station where Jamie tricked us with a Guatemalan secret. He gave us these "sweet berries" that were actually very spicy and hot chili peppers.








After our quick pit stop we went to another high school called Infantes. This is the oldest high school in Guatemala and was founded in the 1780s. This game was won pretty handily by about 25 but it was again fun just playing in a relaxed game with all the guys. After the game Austin was able to share with the other team how God has really helped him through many trials and tribulations during this past year. Brief side note: During the game I became the highest 3 point shooter in Guatemala based on percentage (1 for 1). After eating lunch at the food court of one of the local malls, we headed back to Telma's house for some much needed rest.





About an hour and a half later we got back on the road to play a local adult team. Unlike Sunday night's game, only the Prep players would be playing in this game, no coaches would play. We maintained a solid double digit lead for most of the game but blew it in the 4th quarter. Thankfully we pulled out another one point victory again thanks to some clutch free throws down the stretch. At halftime of this game, Kyle Thigpen gave a great talk about how Colossians 3:16 helps assure him that living out his faith everyday is always rewarding. After the game we headed back to Telma's for another fantastic meal and some much needed sleep.

Day 2 - Emiliani, Prepa, Javier

Travel, travel and more travel...today has been a long day of basketball and traveling around Guatemala City. We began the morning around 7:15 with a strong (and necessary) breakfast of pancakes and fresh fruit. Jaime picked us up at 8:00 and we began the trip to our first stop of the day, a public school called Emiliani. Jaime was excited about this opportunity for us because it was also his first time to get into this school and our team had given him a way to hopefully build a new relationship in Guatemala City with another school.


The basketball game was not unlike many of the games around Guatemala. The game was played on an outdoor court with a crowd that steadily grew as the game progressed. The opposition was a mix of skilled, hard-working high school players that showed a lot of spirit and determination but in the end, we were able to come away with a win and several funny and exciting moments/memories.





After the game finished, the opposing team and many of their classmates gathered around as Coach Horner introduced the team and our purpose for visiting their country and their school. Wirt volunteered to share his testimony and did a fantastic job of communicating his hope found in Christ for the dozens of students that huddled around to hear what he had to say. Afterwards, Jaime was able to again able to pray for the students, present the gospel of salvation through Christ and thank them for allowing us to visit and share. Post-game festivities ensued as students quickly made their way to our guys seeking autographs, silicone wrist bands, and general broken bi-lingual conversations.




After about 30min of visiting with the students and a quick snack, it was back on the road for a game across town at Prepa. As was documented last year, Prepa and Jackson Prep have developed a bit of a foreign rivalry that always results in a spirited showing by all involved and so far, Jackson Prep victories. This visit was no different as both teams played very hard and competed throughout the game. The crowd gathered around the court blowing horns, cheering loudly for every Prepa score and even applauding JP misses and fouls. However, the guys were able to fend off a feisty group of players from Prepa by about 12 points and further fuel the rivalry and raise anticipation for another meeting on Saturday night.

After the game, Josh was able to share his story and how God is shaping him to be the person he was created to be. Again, a well-prepared and delivered message by one of our guys was followed by Jaime giving a gospel presentation and time of prayer for all those in attendance. Our guys again did a fantastic job of not only playing with a sportsmanship and attitude indicative of our message but also interacted with the team and fans after the game in a spirit of curiosity and humility that is rarely seen from teenage boys.



But, alas, our travels must continue as we still had a meeting in another part of town against another larger private school team. This time traffic, more traffic and a quick stop at Burger King for a late lunch all combined to make us about 30 min late for our scheduled game. However, this is Central America and the tardiness was over looked graciously as the team was anxious to play us and see how they stacked up against the Americans. Again, adversity was the name of the game. Due to a set of circumstances that could've proved to be disastrous, we were forced to endure Tim and Schutt as the referees for the final game of the day. According to both of our fearless adult sidekicks, "it was the best refereed game in the history of the sport." (I wish I made that up but it was said..several times.) Our guys played hard and proved once again to be able to push through even the toughest set of circumstances to snatch a victory away from a hopeful opponent.





After the game, Carter stepped up to share his testimony and earnestly spoke of the life change that he has experienced because of his relationship with Christ and encouraged those listening that our God is a God of life change and opened the door for Jaime to again present a clear, concise explanation of Christ's sacrifice and how he offers a hope and future to all who have faith in Him. At this point in the day one would think our guys would be running for our vans, a hot meal and a hot shower. However, yet again we had to physically round them up as they continued to interact and play games with those who stayed around from the school.



Once we arrived back at Telma's, we were greeted by a hot meal of roast beef, rice, vegetables and bread but just as dinner was wrapping up an explosion occurred. Calm down parents. Jose, Telma's son, set off a string of very loud firecrackers in celebration of my birthday. After everyone recovered from the sudden arrhythmia they were experiencing, we were delighted to have a piece of birthday cake before heading off to shower and relax. The night was capped off by a group recap of the day's events and a very challenging, encouraging time from Josep (Tim's college teammate who is a Croatian basketball coach/missionary who is also accompanying us on our trip) as he told us his testimony and how God put people in his life to bring him to Belhaven in 1996 to play college basketball and ultimately put him in a place to hear the gospel and receive Christ as his savior.

Tomorrow's schedule appears to be much like today's with the afternoon designated for rest and a night game scheduled against another adult league team. Continue to pray that God will stretch us in new ways and create a desire in us for Him and Him alone. Pray that we take time to consume what God has put in front us and that we will not let an opportunity go unrecognized or a need to be unmet. Pray that these grow closer together through their reliance on God and the community He has equipped us with in the form of a basketball team.

Also, check flickr for more pictures.

Adios

Early Morning, Late Night and Everything in Between

Hola from Guatemala City,

We arrived in Guatemala City yesterday around 1:30 local time. Our flights and travel accommodations have gone very smoothly and we enjoyed two home cooked meals from our host home kitchen yesterday. After arriving at Telma's, we were able to enjoy a few hours of rest and relaxation before traveling to our only game for the day.

Last night, we traveled to Amatitlan for a game against the local league team. Made up of mostly adults and players we had played in the past, this team proved to be up to the task early on as they build a large lead. However, we shrugged off whatever jet lag or travel effects we may have been feeling to respond. Our opponent held off a late charge and defeated us by 10 points but our guys gained an understanding of how quickly they must adjust to new surroundings and opponents to have success.

More importantly, Michael was able to share his testimony at halftime with the crowd and the opposing team. Michael did a great job sharing how he is continually challenged to honor Christ and be prepared to represent him to all around him. Michael encouraged the crowd with the scripture 1 Peter 3:15. After Michael, Jaime spoke the crowd and detailed the plan of salvation as given in scripture and told the crowd of his love for Christ and His love for us.

After the game, it was back to Telma's for a later than usual dinner and then some much needed rest. Hopefully, the guys had at least a short opportunity to reflect on the day and blessings God has given us on our trip already and in our daily lives.

Today, we have three games scheduled at high schools throughout Guatemala City, including a much anticipated rematch at Prepa. A full day that will should many opportunities to be challenged spiritually and physically as a team and individuals.

Internet availability is touch and go at times but I will try to continue a daily or semi-daily update. Check twitter and flickr for any quick updates we may be able to make in lieu of more detailed blog posts.

Adios