The Holsby Bears
This year the Holsby basketball team had another successful season – although that success was not always seen on the scoreboard…
The Holsby Bears (from TorchBEARerS) were not the most talented team in the league, but we played with heart and made steady improvement throughout the season. Beyond that, we were able to accomplish our goal of honoring God, both on and off the court. After each of our home games, our players shared testimonies with the opposing teams and it was great to see God speaking through these students who were willing to stand up and speak. We know that His Word will not return to Him without making an impact on those who heard it.
The year was highlighted by our mission trip to Poland, where we led a basketball camp and taught sports and English at the local schools. I think each of the guys fell in love with the Polish people as we shared God’s truth with them and they embraced the Bears. At the end of the week, about 12 kids trusted in Jesus and many others were touched by His love through us. We will continue to pray for these kids and for the emerging church there. Former Holsby student and current missionary in Poland, Diana Chinn, was responsible for organizing our visit and will be following up with the new believers there. We hope to return to Poland next year to continue this ministry.
Our goal every year is to worship God in all that we do as a team. This year’s team did that with a joyful heart and was rewarded by seeing lives changed by God’s love.
DA BEARS!
Coach Danny Stephens
It was absolutely amazing that you came to Poland and we can talked with you about God because it’s difficult subject. Now in Czersk is sad without Basketball Camp but i’ve hope that you come back here in next year. And I want to congratulate so successful season 🙂
God bless the Holsby Bears! It\’s been a long time (1994-98) since my husband Ron coached the first Holsby basketball teams, along with Jeff Dusek. We still hear from students and Ron keeps in touch with some of his players, including Vetlanda (non-Holsby) guys he coached. Thanks for the team update.