2016 Mississippi FCA Ministry Update 2016 | Page 5

In their own words …
In October of 2014 our school and football team , of which my youngest son was a member , experienced the tragic death of two studentathletes . It was a difficult experience for all involved , especially the families

In their own words …

Tommy Clopton - Brookhaven High School
of those two young men . Through this tragedy , God began to work in my life and the life of our team , but I wasn ’ t always open to listening to Him . We finished the season , but things were different . We missed the playoffs for the first time in over 9 years . The next season started with more injuries than ever in all my years of coaching and got off to a 0-6 start . We worked harder , the pressure grew , and the results got better , but something still wasn ’ t right . The greatest pressure I felt was self inflicted and I let it affect my relationship with my players , my wife - April , my son , and my family .
Former coach and FCA Representative , Jeff Terrill , told me about the Coaches Time Out . I registered my wife and I to attend , thinking if nothing else it would be a good opportunity for us to get away . Little did I know the impact that CTO would have on my relationship with God , my relationship with my family , and my relationship with my team . The music , worship , and fellowship that we experienced that weekend truly began a revival in my life . Our lives are hectic seven days a week , but for that weekend we were able to focus on each other and be reminded of God ’ s endless grace and mercy . CTO helped me to understand the work that God had begun in me , even when I wasn ’ t listening . In Matthew 11:28 , God tells us that all who are weak and heavy laden should come to Him and He will give us rest . CTO was just the opportunity that I needed to cast my troubles and worries on Him . And just like God always does , He restored my mind , body , and spirit .
The FCA Coaches Time Out was a great experience that has impacted my family , my team , and most importantly , it has helped me to have an impact on others .
Dennis Alexander - East Central Community College
My wife and I decided to attend CTO last year not knowing anything about the event . We thought it would be a good time to get away and have sort of a minivacation . Well , we were in for a vacation and so much more ! We had a chance to meet other coaches on a personal level and participate in marriage building activities . My wife was able to meet other coach ’ s wives and discuss all types of life-changing events since becoming a coach ’ s wife . We were able to witness all the great things God is doing through coaching and the FCA ministry . We worshipped , laughed , prayed , and shared our hearts throughout this event . My wife and I left this event more spiritually connected than ever before . Since this event , I have accepted the FCA Coach position at my place of employment and it has been a blessing to me and my family . We are excited to see what God is going to do through the work of the FCA ministry on our campus .
For more details on these stories , visit : mississippifca . org / 2016
3