“My name is Preston Hudak and I’ve had the privilege of coaching and getting to know a great group of men this summer. As I get both older in my faith and further away from my playing days, mission trips to the Dominican Republic have become increasingly meaningful to me in a number of different ways. Personally, my spirit is always profoundly impacted by the missionary work we accomplish in the Boys’ and Girls’ orphanages, the school of Hogar del Niño, the village of El Peñon, and Los Mantones hometown of my brother from another mother and long-time Kingsmen translator, Kike). It has been a blessing to play a small part in building deep, lasting relationships with the leaders of these organizations and communities. I thank God to be able to witness firsthand both the short and long term impact that Kingsmen has had on the people and communities of the island. My favorite part of the trip this year was seeing the new children’s ministry building at Pastor Maximo’s church in El Peñon. It will be used to teach children about the good news of Jesus and it will also double as a food bank for underfed kids in the area. The building was funded through the generosity of Kingsmen’s incredible supporters. Over the past few years, I’ve watched both the schools and orphanages we invest in grow in resources while continuing to pour love into the children they serve. I’ve watched those little ones grow up to become good men and women who have a heart for the Lord.
I’ve witnessed countless Bibles being passed out to Dominican baseball players after hard-fought ball games in the Caribbean heat. I’ve seen players make first time commitments and recommitments to follow Christ.
I’ve known several players to start their own Bible studies when they go back to their college in the fall – talk about a ripple effect! I’ve been baptized here. I’ve gotten closer to my family here. The Dominican Republic has become a part of who 1 am. I’m so grateful to have experienced another life changing trip with this amazing team.”
