School: Texas A&M Texarkana
Position: Infielder
1st Year Kingsmen Player
To say this experience was life-changing would be an understatement. Playing baseball in both Alaska and the Dominican Republic this summer has truly been a dream come true. But even more meaningful than the game itself has been the growth I’ve experienced—both in my relationship with the Lord and in understanding of myself and who I want to become.
The word joy has been the theme of this trip. I’ve seen it on the faces of our team, in the little girls and boys we’ve met, and in every moment—from gathering supplies for the sugar cane villages to worshipping at the church we went to. It’s a joy that runs deeper than circumstance and language, Joy and the word of God do not need translation.
One of the most powerful experiences was getting to spend time at the boys’ and girls’ orphanages. Whether we were playing kickball, baseball, soccer, or basketball, the pure happiness and genuine smiles on the kids’ faces were unforgettable. Their joy put smiles on my heart as well as our whole team’s.As a first-time visitor, I especially loved hearing their stories—many of them shared through translation. It was moving to learn how much the children have grown since last summer, and how much our visits mean to them. But the truth is, they’ve impacted me more than they will ever know. Even an afternoon spent with them left a lasting mark on my heart.
While I was at the girls’ orphanage, I kept thinking: This is the kind of joy we’re meant to wake up with every day as Christians. When we’ve accepted Jesus, we’ve already won the war against evil. That’s a joy nothing in this world can take away.
This trip has been more than just an opportunity—it’s been a soul-deep experience that I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life. This group of people is so special. It’s indescribable. I’ve never felt anything like it.
