Today was a historic day for Gateway Baptist Academy as our school played its first interscholastic game. The soccer match was held at Freestone Park and was attended by a good crowd from our church, as well as the visiting team- Valley Baptist.

Valley struck first, scoring two goals in the first half. After regrouping, the GBA Lions came back with more aggressiveness and energy. With crisp passing, midfielder Aaron McClure slashed through the middle and scored GBA’s first ever goal during the 61st minute of the game. However, that was the last goal the Lions would score as the game ended in a 2-1 score.

Despite the loss, the team demonstrated a great spirit and maintained a godly testimony. It was a joy to see the two teams meet at centerfield and kneel for prayer after the game and I thought to myself, “This is what the sports program is about- instilling in our young men Christ-like characteristics. Learning to win and lose while keeping Christ in focus for He is the Author and Finisher of our faith.”

As a principal, I am proud of my students for the effort and character they displayed. I told them this morning that someday, we’ll get old and talk about the memories they made today. And at that time, the energy to play soccer or any other sport will be gone as well. But what we will possess are the biblical principles and precepts we have learned, even in the arena of sports. And if God chooses, as He has laid upon our hearts, to teach our student athletes godly character through sports, then we would have accomplished more than what most school sports programs would offer.