March 23, 2018
The East Texas Baptist University Volleyball Team spent Spring Break in Eastern Europe as a part of the Tiger Athletic Mission Experience (TAME) program. The group of 16, led by Vice President for Athletics Ryan Erwin and his wife, Kristy, along with Head Volleyball Coach Keely Peterson, partnered with two ETBU alumni currently serving overseas. Through TAME, the Tigers were enabled to engage in outreach by hosting volleyball clinics, teaching English, and competing with local club teams.
"Practicing with the Stampedo Volleyball Club and their coaches allowed us to make connections and see the Lord work through the relationships built," Peterson said. "We went to Eastern Europe to make a difference and in turn, I have been encouraged by the growth seen in our team's spiritual walk. I am thankful for the help provided by our host contacts. Their ministry is unique and they are committed to share God's Word through any and every opportunity. It was a privilege to work with them and the community they serve in Eastern Europe."
ETBU student-athletes spent the evenings at the local community center investing in the neighborhood teenagers and teams. While playing cards and board games, the players shared about their personal lives and faith in the Lord. The Tiger Volleyball team also coordinated an "Amazing Race" scavenger hunt through downtown. Eight teams and over 35 people participated in the event.
"It was interesting to not only see how volleyball is played at an international level, but also how cultural differences seem to disappear when we step on the court," ETBU sophomore Gabby Guy shared. "The locals have welcomed us with open arms, and I have enjoyed building relationships through our time in fellowship. The Lord had so much in store for us in Eastern Europe."
The family that hosted the ETBU group serve with the informal education branch of the sending agency Teach Beyond to teach English courses and offer cultural exchange events and seminars. The couple works with a small local Baptist church to meet the needs of the community. They graciously supported their alma mater by collaborating with the University volleyball team.
"Our host family taught me several things through their ministry and how to love others like Jesus does. They put their full trust in God with their jobs, finances, children and more, setting an incredible example of faith for us," ETBU senior Abby Weaver expressed. "They took us in like we were family and gave us the opportunity to do what we love, play volleyball, and take those relationships off the court, and then have conversations with the girls about the Gospel. Seeing how they live by faith and love others so well is something that will forever stay with me and challenge me in my personal relationship with God."
The trip to Eastern Europe was the fifth Tiger Athletic Mission Experience. Head Coach Brandon Curran will be taking ETBU Men's Basketball to Israel in May of 2018. TAME provides ETBU student-athletes the opportunity to use their God-given athletic talents as a platform to connect with people and share the Gospel of Jesus around the world. To follow all of the upcoming trips, visit https://tigerathleticmissionexperience.tumblr.com/.