Through your generous giving, we’re delighted to introduce the newest member of SU’s Mission through Sport team: Former professional footballer Koko Koleni!
Koko’s childhood dream of becoming a pro footballer came true when he was selected to train at Manchester United Academy and then to play professionally for Morecambe.
But in his debut game, he sustained an injury that ended his footballing career almost before it had begun.
Koko held onto 2 Corinthians 5 verse 7: ‘For we live by faith, not by sight’ and God blessed him with the opportunity to use his footballing skills alongside his faith. Koko now works for SU’s Mission through Sport team and also with Activate, a partnership of churches led by St Peter’s in West Molesey, long associated with SU. Already he’s seeing spiritual fruit.
A SIMPLE STEP THAT CHANGED EVERYTHING
For several years, St Peter’s had run weekly football sessions for local teens. However, the church had struggled with how to get the group on to exploring and responding to faith.
Koko used some Mission through Sport team tactics. Right at the end of one football session, he led the boys in a prayer ‘huddle’ which he assumed would last a few minutes.
But they were there for over half an hour!
Koko says, ‘The lads absolutely loved it, some of them praying and speaking out about Jesus for the first time! We’ve continued that every week. It’s led to natural faith conversations while we’re playing too, and they’re constantly asking questions. The presence of the Holy Spirit is really special. Some of the boys now come to church. For those who can’t (because churchgoing isn’t part of their family’s culture), they’re always asking, “What did you learn this Sunday?”
“THE LADS ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT… SOME OF THEM PRAYING FOR THE FIRST TIME.”
‘They’re interested in what’s going on, and really exploring faith, taking the first steps of learning about Jesus and getting to know him.’
It seems that Koko has found his true vocation! Please pray with us that through him Jesus will be revealed to many more young people.
“THEY’RE INTERESTED IN WHAT’S GOING ON, AND REALLY EXPLORING FAITH.”
SCORE BIG WITH YOUR OUTREACH
The SU Sports team are passionate about helping you and your church discover just how simple it can be to use sports, games and physical activities to share the good news of Jesus with the next generation.