TKA Students Start a Soccer Mentorship Program
TKA senior Jerusha Pervenecki and sophomore Makayla Barrantes recently pioneered the God’s Champions Soccer Mentorship Program that allows TKA high school soccer players to teach basic soccer skills to elementary age students from grades 3 to 6.
In addition to improving soccer skills, the high school soccer players mentor the children providing general life skills and spiritual guidance. The program is free and immediately reached its capacity with 30 elementary-aged children participating.The idea for the mentorship program was formed after Jerusha and Makayla helped coach children in TKA’s summer sports camp during the week dedicated to soccer. They enjoyed the experience so much that they were inspired to begin their own soccer camp. After consulting and receiving support from TKA’s Boys’ Varsity Soccer coach, Jerry Barrantes, the girls approached the Athletic Director, Adam Winters, and the Elementary Principal, Jon Otto who agreed the program would be a great instrument to build soccer talent and passion at a younger age and pour into the lives of children. The girls added student coaches Kyle Bostwick (senior), Bailey Mudrick (senior), and Sarah Rinker (8th grade) to round out the coaching team. Sophomore Makayla Barrantes will continue to build the program as the seniors graduate.
"The kids that I am privileged to mentor always put a smile on my face before the weekend begins. They goof around, tell me school stories, and always greet me with great excitement. These kids have no idea how they have helped me in knowing exactly what to do for my future plans, which is starting a soccer mentorship program for underprivileged, inner city children. I will dearly miss every single one of them once I graduate," said Jerusha.
The program practices every Friday for roughly an hour and a half, running drills and scrimmaging. The last 15 minutes of each practice are reserved for a time of sharing when one of the student coaches shares a Bible verse and how it can be applied to everyday life. The participants are also encouraged to memorize a weekly Bible verse. TKA is proud of these students who are pouring into the next generation and exercising their Christian leadership.