- The Testimony Card

The Testimony Card
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Anthony Muñoz
Cincinnati Bengals (1980-1992) • NFL Hall of Fame 1998
Ht: 6-6 • Wt: 278
Position: Offensive Tackle
Raised by my mother in Southern California,
I always loved sports. In college, I pitched for USC, helping my team
win a World Series, while my dream of playing professional football
was nearly shattered due to three knee injuries. Rehabilitating
my knee took hard work, but after undergoing my most serious
surgery for a ligament tear my senior year, my wife (DeDe) and I
were able to read the Bible and pray. The decision we had made
two years earlier to make Jesus the Lord of our lives provided
encouragement and hope.
I fought back that season to help USC win the Rose Bowl.
Following the season, I became the first round draft choice of the
Cincinnati Bengals.
The honors and recognition received in my sport have been
nice, but compared to my relationship with God and my family, the
accomplishments mean little. A man’s character is better judged
by his family and faith than by his fame.
www.aia.com
www.aiagear.com
This card is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Cincinnati Bengals or the NFL
MARIANO RIVERA • NEW YORK YANKEES
10-year MLB Veteran
Position: Pitcher • Height: 6-2 • Weight: 170
Favorite Verse: Philippians 4:13
Career Highlight: 1999 World Series MVP
When I was a teenager, I thought that the most
important thing in life was partying. I wasted
a lot of time in activities that left me empty
inside. During my fourth year in minor league
baseball, I faced some personal trials. Through
these I realized I needed to turn to the Lord for
help and direction. I asked Jesus to forgive my
sin and come into my life.
Now I know that following Christ is the most
important thing in life. I encourage you to read
the Bible and learn how you too can experience
new life in Christ.
www.aia.com
Clark Kellogg
Indiana Pacers (1982-1987) • CBS Basketball Analyst
Ht: 6-7 • Wt: 225
Position: Forward
As a high school All-American, I received a
scholarship to The Ohio State University where I would be named
the 1982 Big Ten MVP. That same year, the Indiana Pacers drafted
me with the eighth pick in the NBA draft. I was on my way to
experiencing everything I’d ever dreamed of. But five years later
knee trouble ended my career.
Growing up in a loving two-parent household, I don’t recall
going to church much but know my four siblings and I were raised
with Judeo-Christian values. I acknowledged the existence of
God, but had no real concept of what a relationship with him was
about. Like many of us, I thought doing good things and making my
parents and others proud would please God.
In 1985, while rehabilitating from a third knee surgery, I
began thinking about my purpose in life. A local minister started
conducting chapel services prior to games. Curious about the
peace he had, I asked him to walk me and my wife through the
bible and teach us about God.
I learned God loves us, gives us life and breath, and has an
ultimate plan for our life. He wants us to know and worship Him,
but sin (falling short of God’s mark) creates a gap between man
and a holy God. However, God, because of His great love, provides
His son, Jesus Christ to bridge the gap. Through faith in Christ all
can be forgiven of sin, made new, and eternal life can be yours.
www.aia.com
www.aiagear.com
This card is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Indiana Pacers or the NBA
Getty Images / Nicolas Asfouri
TIM HOWARD • MANCHESTER UNITED
Ht: 6-3 • Wt: 210 • Position: Goalkeeper
2004 Premiership Goalkeeper of the Year
2001 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year
2001 MLS Humanitarian of the Year
As a child, I saw peace in my grandmother’s life.
I knew her peace came from the Lord and it was
powerful. I wanted the kind of faith and peace Nana
had. God used her to reveal His love for me.
At age ten, I was diagnosed with Tourette’s
Syndrome—a neurological disorder characterized
by physical and verbal tics. Having Tourette’s isn’t
easy, but God blessed me with the gift of athleticism
as well. The Lord has worked in my life through the
combination of these two gifts. He helps me encourage
others with Tourette’s Syndrome through the exposure
of being a professional athlete.
I’m blessed to be living a dream, yet if it all went
away tomorrow I’d still have peace. That sounds
crazy to many people, but that’s the kind of peace
Christ gives. It’s rooted in love and surpasses all
understanding. That love and peace can be yours too.
For more information about how you can have true
peace and to learn about the Tim Howard Story DVD,
visit www.timhowardstory.com.
www.aia.com
Tony Meola
Goalkeeper
2000 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year T2000 MLS Cup MVP
2000 MLS Most Valuable Player TMLS All Time Best XI
Teams: U.S. Men’s National Team, NJ Ironmen (MISL),
Red Bull New York (MLS), Kansas City Wizards (MLS), NY/NJ MetroStars (MLS)
For most of my life, soccer was the most important thing to me. I enjoyed
the success I was experiencing on the field, but the trials that go along with being a professional
athlete ruled my life on a daily basis. Then, at the age of 32, I realized that although soccer is a great
sport, it makes a terrible “ruler.” I needed to rededicate myself to finding direction and purpose for my
life outside of my sport. While playing for the Kansas City Wizards, I realized through a great friend of
mine what was missing in my life, and that Christ was worthy of being the ruler of my life, and I asked
Him to “Lead me.”
I have come to realize that in the game of life, I can do anything with Jesus leading the way. I now
realize that because God has blessed me with so many things—talent, opportunities, special coaches,
teammates, health and self-discipline—that all I have accomplished has been through and from Him.
Most importantly, God has blessed me with a great family and the opportunity to have Jesus as the
Lord of my life. And He is willing to bless you, too.
www.aia.com
Photo: International Sports Images
This card is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Men’s National Team, MLS or MISL.
Photo: ManUtdpics.com
John Carney
Kicker
Ht: 6-2 • Wt: 185 • College: Notre Dame
Career: 21-Years Buccaneers, Rams, Chargers,
Saints, Chiefs, Jaguars and Giants • Highlights:
Super Bowl 1995, Pro Bowl 1995, 2008, 4th
place All-time scoring list (1,944 points)
Why am I Always Positive?
Despite being a walk-on, I left Notre Dame the all-time leader in field
goal accuracy. As an undrafted free agent I bounced around NFL camps
for 3-years before I finally got an opportunity with the Buccaneers. After
six games in Tampa Bay, I found myself unemployed again and knew I
had to choose a positive attitude if I was going to persevere.
Next I tried my luck on the West Coast with the Chargers and Rams,
before a long-term opportunity opened in San Diego. I was blessed
when Chargers GM Bobby Beathard graciously gave me an opportunity
with the team, paving the way for a 21-year NFL career which included
joining the defending World Champion New York Giants in 2008.
My life and career have been quite a journey. Best described by
twists and turns, bumps and detours on this road of life, tears, laughs,
smiles and surprises also fill my resume’.
Through it all, I am blessed and humbled to be called a child of
God. The Bible is my playbook, and God’s word does not return void.
I hold two verses close to my heart which give me strength, courage,
wisdom, poise and comfort. Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord
with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all
your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
Likewise, Colossians 3:23 says, “Whatever you do, work at it with all
your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.”
I am John Carney and I am Always Positive!
Join the movement at www.alwayspositive.org or learn more at www.alwayspositive.com
Photos: Jerry Pinkus
Allen Bach
Cowboy
I have been very blessed in my life to have been able to work at something
that I love and enjoy very much. Roping! I really believe that your footsteps
are ordered by the Lord and your thoughts can be established by the Lord.
One of my favorite scriptures is John 10:10. Jesus said that he came to
give life and life more abundantly. That means to me that He wants life to be
good for you! It seems simple, but we have to turn everything over to him and know his ways are
better than ours. (Proverbs 16:3)
The best thing I ever did was lay my rope down on the ground one day when I was about twenty
and dedicate my life and roping to him. There will always be a power struggle with the Lord in your
life over your talents and abilities until you dedicate them to Him! Just like a good father, He knows
and wants the best for you because He loves you. Let God help you because He loves you! Let God
help you be the best you can be. Life and life more abundantly is my relationship with Jesus, my wife
Peggy, my children April, Erica, Joel, and Tyler and a career I love!
By the way, WE WIN!
For more information about a relationship with Jesus Christ, visit: www.forevercowboys.com or www.cowboyfellowship.org • Photos: Dan Hubbell
www.testimonycards.com
God isn’t as dependent on your ability as He is your availability! My hope with this testimony isn’t
to say I’m mistake free but to say that God wants you in His family and on His team! Even though
we make mistakes HE is the greatest coach you’ll ever play for!
Bobby Mote
Cowboy
Favorite Bible verse: Philippians 3:13-14 • Favorite sport
other than rodeo: Team Roping • Achievements: 2x World
Champion Bare Back Rider, 8x NFR • Family: Married 9 years
to Kate • Children: Charlie 7, Laura 5, Trey 11/2
I was blessed to grow up in a Christian family and came to know the Lord when I was young.
I recall learning early on there is significant power in prayer. Issues in life didn’t need to be huge
matters in order to bring before the Lord.
Like many kids growing up, I found myself testing the waters and at times getting into trouble. But
when I think back, I’m grateful He doesn’t hold my past deeds against me. He loves me unconditionally
and desires me to walk in obedience in accordance with his instructions in the Bible.
The fact I am in some way expanding the kingdom of God through my exposure is awesome. I rest
in the peace of mind there is a plan much larger than mine. If circumstances don’t fit into my plans, I
trust something better is in store anyway.
For more information about a relationship with Jesus Christ, visit: www.forevercowboys.com or www.cowboyfellowship.org • Photos: Dan Hubbell
www.testimonycards.com
I am thankful Christ has made me a winner (through His bloodshed on the cross) and has graciously
given me the skills and to ride bare back horses at the highest level. Keeping the focus on glorifying
God and not myself makes me glad to be doing what I do.
Ted Barrett
MLB Umpire
Debut: May 26, 1994
In 1994 I was umpiring in the Pacific Coast
League. I was extremely excited when I got the call every AAA
umpire hopes for, the call to the big leagues. I felt many emotions
that day including pride, joy, nervousness and excitement. I also
felt extremely fortunate to be called up over so many great umpires
who were available, I kept asking myself, why me? There are only
68 major league umpires and why would someone choose me to join
their ranks?
Much in the same way God called me to be a follower of Him, I
answered the call and have been living for Him ever since. Sometimes
I ask myself, why me? I know I am a person with a sinful nature who
does not deserve God’s love. But God knows me and yet still loves me.
He loves me so deeply that he sent His Son Jesus to die for me. God
is calling you too. You can answer the call by asking Jesus to be the
Lord and savior of your life. There is only one way to heaven, and that
is through Jesus Christ. Admit to God that you have sinned against
him and ask for his forgiveness, accept Christ’s redeeming grace and
answer the call today!
Contact me through our website at www.callingforchrist.com Card produced by: www.testimonycards.com
Photos: MLB
This card is not affiliated with or endorsed by Major League Baseball.
Tim Masthay
Kentucky Wildcats
Position: Kicker/Punter
Ht: 6-2 • Wt: 185
Favorite Scripture: Colossians 3:23
The dream was a reality. SEC football, college
life, freedom! Could it get any better? I certainly didn’t think so. Then
it happened. One summer afternoon, while driving on a highway, I lost
control and totaled my car. I managed to escape uninjured, but soon
came to realize my car wasn’t the only thing out of control.
At an early age, I came to believe Jesus Christ was the Son of God,
had died on the cross and rose again so that I might have eternal life
with Him. Though I was grateful for the gift of salvation, it wasn’t until
later that I found a deeper commitment to God’s purpose for my life.
Through my teenage years, athletics gave me great joy, largely
defining my identity and purpose. The affirmation I received from
accolades and praise suited me just fine.
But when I began playing college football I struggled mightily. I
found my identity slipping, my purpose waning, and the joy gone. I
waited for “success” to return, but knew in my heart that only God
could fill the voids and restore me. And He did! Though I had given Him
little consideration for many years, He received me with open arms!
Today, through my many imperfections, I continue on the journey.
The love for Jesus and desire to follow Him brings that same peace,
joy, and hope I’d been truly seeking. In my early childhood I traded
certain death for eternal life. Now, finally, I have taken this assurance
and begun to truly live!
For more information about a relationship with Jesus Christ, please
visit: www.beyondtheultimate.org
www.testimonycards.com
Photos: Team Coyle Photography
This card is not affiliated or endorsed by the NCAA or University of Kentucky
ROGER POWELL JR. • UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
Position: Forward
Favorite Verse: Philippians 4:13
Since childhood, I’ve dreamed of winning Big Ten
titles, going to the Final Four and playing in the NBA.
This is what life was all about.
As I entered college, I continued to live life on my own
terms, at times hurtful to myself and others.
Last year, my motivation changed when I finally
realized that as I approached my goals, I was really
setting myself up for failure. I was caught in the
everyday trap of looking for lasting fulfillment in the
wrong places.
I read in Romans 12, “in view of God’s mercy, offer
your bodies as living sacrifices.” I recognized that God is
merciful and loving, yet in my life I had actually chosen
to walk away from the One who cares for, knows, and
loves me the most. When I recognized that I was living
in rebellion to God, I knew that I needed His mercy. I
admitted my sin, asked for forgiveness given through
Christ’s death and resurrection, and decided to offer
myself as a living sacrifice.
My problems haven’t disappeared and I’m not exempt
from troubles; but, I am forgiven and can face the
challenges of life through my relationship with Jesus.
Without question, I’ve been called to be a minister of
the Gospel—the good news of Jesus. This is what life
is all about.
For more information visit www.everystudent.com
JEFF HARTINGS • PITTSBURGH STEELERS
Height: 6-3 • Weight: 300 • Position: Center
Favorite verses: Phil. 4:6-7; Matt. 6:24
Growing up with nine siblings on a farm meant
there were things we did without. Determined
that money could buy anything my heart desired,
I sought to be rich by one day becoming an
NFL player. Following an All-American senior
season at Penn State, I was drafted in the first
round by Detroit. My signing bonus was like a
dream come true! “Now I can buy anything,”
I thought. However, after three seasons in the
NFL, I discovered money couldn’t purchase peace
for my heart. The pressure to perform on the field
was turning me into a miserable, self-absorbed
husband who feared failing as an athlete. I was
invited to a players’ Bible study and chapel.
What I heard changed my life forever! Finally,
my search for peace ended when I humbled
myself and asked Jesus Christ to forgive me of
all my sins. Ultimately, He paid a debt (death)
I couldn’t afford (Romans 6:23). Now I play for
His glory, which removes the pressure to perform
for people.
www.aia.com
Matthew Maher
New Jersey Ironmen
Position: Defender
College: Temple University
Ht: 5-11 • Wt: 170
I grew up in a strong Christian home. I placed my faith in the Lord at
an early age and tried to maintain a consistent spiritual walk. When I
entered my teen years, I began to struggle with allowing God to direct
my life. I often made choices that didn’t reflect my commitment to Him.
I always knew what was right, but many times failed to do it. However,
through it all, I always felt Christ’s unconditional forgiveness. It was
never too late or too difficult to confess my shortcomings to Him and
experience His amazing grace.
The Christian walk is a growth process and Christ desires an
authentic relationship with us. I found this out first-hand when my
oldest brother died suddenly. It was Christ who gave me the most
comfort during those trying times as I felt the outpouring of His love.
I have learned to thank God for all things: the good and the bad. And
I take rest in that He cares for me, in the midst of trials and when
all is well.
www.aia.com • www.nynjaia.com
Action Photo: Dan Salvo, DazzlePhotography.com
Portrait Photo: Ed and Sharon Allitt
This card is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Major Indoor Soccer League or the New Jersey Ironmen.
TWAN RUSSELL • MIAMI DOLPHINS
Ht: 6-2 • Wt: 228 • Position: Outside Linebacker
College: University of Miami
Favorite Verse: John 15:5
Growing up, sports and family were the most
important things to my four brothers and me. I excelled
in track, winning the state championship in high
school in the 300 intermediate hurdles.
I grew up attending church, but I didn’t grow up
knowing God in a personal way. I didn’t just run
around the track; I ran from God, figuring then that I’d
live for Christ later in life.
One day, tired of running my own life, I gave up and
turned to the Lord. While sitting in a Bible study, a
player talked to me about what it is to give your life to
Him. I knew I could no longer push God aside.
Through my relationship with God and time spent
with other Christians, I have experienced what it is to
have quality, meaningful relationships and I have come
to better appreciate the importance of being a good role
model for others. It is my hope that some my come to
know Christ as they see me live for Him.
www.aia.com • info@testimonycards.com
This card not affiliated with or endorsed by the Miami Dolphins or the National Football League
Mike Wilks
Point Guard
Ht: 5-11 • Wt: 185 • College: Rice University
Pro Teams: Mobile Revelers, Huntsville Flight,
Atlanta Hawks, Minnesota Timberwolves, Houston
Rockets, San Antonio Spurs, Cleveland Cavaliers,
Seattle SuperSonics, Denver Nuggets, Washington
Wizards • Favorite Verse: Romans 8:28 • Highlight: 2005 NBA World
Championship with the San Antonio Spurs
I spent the first 18 years of my life growing up in Milwaukee, WI. Upon
graduating from high school, I received an athletic scholarship to Rice
University in Houston, TX.
During my first year of college, I began to experience what I would call
“inner turmoil.” I felt like I wasn’t living up to my full potential both as
a person and an athlete. The fact that I had lost several friends to death
and seen others sent to prison, compounded my lack of inner peace. I
began to ask myself, “If I die today or tomorrow, where would I end up?”
I reflected on the answer to this question and began to sincerely pray
about it. God spoke to my heart and revealed to me there was a void
in my life that only He could fill. During my sophomore year, I made a
commitment to Jesus Christ, accepting Him as Lord and Savior. My life
has never been the same. God has given me His peace talked about in
John 14:27 that says, “My peace I give you. I do not give you as the world
gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
I have been blessed with the opportunity to play in the NBA for several
years, made good money and had material possessions. However, I can
testify that nothing really brings me the lasting fulfillment I receive
from my personal relationship with Christ. Today I desire to live for His
purposes and glory.
For more information about a relationship with Jesus Christ, please visit: www.powertochange.com.
This card is not endorsed or affiliated with the NBA or NBDL
www.testimonycards.com
ART IN MOTION … AN OFF THE CANVAS EXPERIENCE
Performing Arts: Basketball, Unicycles, Juggling, Gymnastics, Dance, Singing, and more
… Todd Krueger and Ann Crevier-Krueger and their ten children—Alison, Paul, Hannah,
Gabriel, Reuben, Natalie, Samuel, Silas, Anastasia and Francis
Family Motto: To preach the gospel wherever we go, and if necessary, use words.
-St. Francis of Assisi
Family Creed: To believe in the Trinity: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy
Spirit. To believe in Jesus Christ, His only son, our Lord and Savior. To love the Lord our God
with all our Heart, Soul and Mind, and to love our neighbor as ourself. To love our Country,
the United States of America and to be a patriotic citizen. To love and serve one another.
Family Verse: “To be like a tree planted by streams of living water, yielding fruit each season
and being prosperous in whatever we do.” (from Psalm 1)
48420 Hwy 13 • Elkton, SD 57026 • 605-542-7551
E-mail: offthecanvas@yahoo.com • Website: www.crevierministries.org/family/ann
Travis Tryan
Cowboy
Favorite Passage: Psalm 91; Provides comfort to know that
when you dwell in the secret place of the Most High, God’s
protection is promised for me and my family.
Favorite Sport other than roping: golf and basketball
For more information about a relationship with Jesus Christ, visit: www.forevercowboys.com or www.cowboyfellowship.org • Photos: Dan Hubbell
www.testimonycards.com
I grew up in a family, where my mom took my brother and me to church every Sunday. These
experiences gave me a great foundation for the future, but I still had some bumps along the road. I
was taught about Jesus, but never about the need for salvation. Without the guidance of the Holy
Spirit, I made an array of bad choices throughout my high school years.
Not until I turned 18, did I begin to recall and take seriously the powerful influence my mom had
instilled at a young age. My dad had been going to bible study at a friend’s house and one night I
went along. Little did I know that same evening my dad would talk to me about salvation through
Christ. I repented of my sin before the Lord and began to realize the difference between sin and
living a Godly life.
Since that day, I have tried to walk obediently with the Lord, but not without mistakes. After all,
I’m only human. My heart’s desire is to be in God’s will and be a good witness for Him. The Lord has
blessed me with a Godly wife and together, we are raising our daughter with His wisdom.
The great faith fight is a challenge, but very rewarding. Stay hooked with God and don’t give up.
BRET MERKLE FROM SOUTH DAKOTA
Two-Time All-State Quarterback; Broken Back and Paralyzed; Torn Aorta
to Heart; Leg Amputated; Given no hope to ever walk again or have
children; Struck Down, But Not Destroyed! (2 Cor. 4:9)
On May 15th, 1986, I was paralyzed from the waist down and lost
my leg in a motorcycle accident. Six months in the hospital, twenty
surgeries and years of rehabilitation learning to walk again, plus the
day to day struggles, taught me that my only hope is in Jesus! When
everything else fails us, Jesus is there to pick us up. Romans 8:37
says “In all these things we overwhelmingly CONQUER
through Him who loved us.” And Philippians 4:13 says, we
“can do all things through Christ who gives us strength.”
I’ve learned we can overcome anything by God’s strength!
Friend, I’ve been set free from the circumstances of my suffering by
knowing Jesus. Do you know Jesus? We have all broken God’s laws, but
Jesus died to pay the penalty that we deserve. Just as I am a prisoner
in a broken body, we are all prisoners of sin. Jesus can set you free
from the curse of sin, death and suffering if you repent of your sins
and commit your life to Him. Jesus loves YOU so much that He died
in YOUR place! Accept His gift of salvation and live forever! Read
Romans 10:9-10 and Psalm 51 and make them your prayer. Then
read the Bible and seek God daily, and I’ll see you in heaven where
there is no pain!
PO Box 220 • Harrisburg, SD 57032
bret@pathema.com • www.pathema.com
VANTZ SINGLETARY
Experience:
• Univ. of Hawaii 1999-Present, Def. Line Coach
• Southern University 1997-98, Def. Line Coach and
Recruiting Coordinator
• Trinity Univ. 1992-96, Def. Coordinator, Linebackers,
Recruiting Coordinator, Admissions Counselor
Favorite Verse: James 1:12
My family means everything to me. They’re the foundation of
my success as a man, a Christian, and football coach.
My early home life was challenging and my family had to
cope with many of the issues common to working class Black
American families: poverty, single-parent household, lack of
good role models in the neighborhood.
But my mother, my grandmother, and uncle, Mike Singletary,
who went on to become a Hall of Fame linebacker, encouraged
and guided me to channel my energy into academics and
athletics. I credit Jesus Christ and my family with guiding me
throughout my youth, and protecting me from many of the
pitfalls that entrap young people.
I have shared the joy and challenge of raising four daughters
with my wife Shawndra. Her encouragement has allowed me to
fulfill my quest be a Christ-honoring father and coach.
www.aia.com • info@testimonycards.com
This card is not affiliated with or endorsed by The Univ. of Hawaii or the NCAA.
Photo: Larry LeLievre
“Mighty Mike” Simmel
Point Guard
College: Purchase College (SUNY)
Team: Harlem Wizards (2001- )
HT: 5-9 • WT: 170
At the age of two, I was diagnosed with a neurological condition
called epilepsy, which I live with every day. When I was 24, I almost
died from a 108-degree fever.
Living with epilepsy and almost dying caused me to turn to God for
answers. In my search for truth, I discovered that God loves me and
has a plan and purpose for my life. And that all I needed to do was put
my faith in Christ for the forgiveness of my sins and His plan would
unfold. I did that and now I know I’ll be in heaven with Him when I
die. I also have peace and joy, which helps me in every circumstance
I face.
I’ve learned that God allowed adversity in my life to make me a
stronger person—more like Christ. I see God working and guiding me
all the time. I see it each instance I meet a young person who I can
encourage.
Epilepsy has not kept me from living my dreams. When I was
seven, my dad gave me a basketball—and then great things started
to happen. Entertaining crowds with my hoop tricks is a blessing. God
is with me every step of the way. He can be with you too if you ask
Christ into your heart—and watch His plan for you begin.
For more information on “Mighty Mike” Simmel, visit
www.mightymikebasketball.com.
Produced by: www.testimonycards.com
This card is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Harlem Wizards.
Bobby Eads
Fisherman
Favorite Verse: Philipians 4:13
I grew up in a Christian family. But by the time
I’d become an adult, I had slipped further and
further from God. In my heart, I knew I desired a
relationship with Jesus, but felt like I just didn’t have time. My focus
was more on working long hours to provide for my family.
In 1995, I started having significant back problems. Eventually,
I couldn’t even stand or walk on my own. It was during this very
challenging time that God allowed me to realize he’d given me the
time I had asked for. In beginning to read the Bible consistently, God’s
promises came to life. One night, as I sat alone, He drew me closer to
Himself than ever before.
Following back surgery, the Lord led me to become a youth pastor.
Life has been an adventure since. In 1999, I founded the Indiana
Division of Fishers of Men and in 2002 became the vice president of
the ministry. Two years later in 2004, I left my job as a firefighter to
focus on the ministry full time.
Looking back, that part of my life seemed like my darkest hour. But
now I thank God for bringing me through it. What once seemed like
the worst time in my life, is without question the best thing that ever
happened to me. Today, I travel the country meeting outdoorsmen and
sharing Christ love with them. I’ve been blessed with the opportunity
to speak at events in more than twenty states … not because of
my abilities, but because God is working through me in spite of my
weaknesses.
www.fomntt.com
www.testimonycards.com
Kory Koontz
Cowboy
Favorite Verse: Phil 4:13
As a kid, I don’t recall going to church very
often, however, when I did go, I learned about
Jesus and his love for me. It wasn’t until my teenage years, and the
influence of my girlfriend and her family, that I remember going to
church on a regular basis.
During this season of life, I learned who Jesus truly was and why
I needed to be part of His family. I remember repenting of my sin and
asking Him to make the necessary changes in my life.
It took a few years before I actually learned how to live in such a
way as to glorify God (which is still very much a work in progress
today.) But through the transformation process, I am learning the
importance of obedience to His Word.
After my first child was born, I knew I needed God’s guidance
in taking hold of the responsibility of being a husband and father.
I learned that my purpose for being on this earth was to have real
relationships: with my heavenly Father and with those people within
my circle of influence. This allows God to use me for His purposes and
it is reassuring to know He is using me to draw people to Himself.
My primary goal is to live according to God’s Word.
I can live without worry with God’s Word as my strength.
I love a good steak after I heel a steer fast. When I have a day off, I
like to play golf … mainly when I’m rodeoing.
For more information about a relationship with Jesus Christ, please visit: www.forevercowboys.com or
www.cowboyfellowship.org
Photos: Dan Hubbell
Produced by www.testimonycards.com
Tracy Hanson
LPGA
Joined LPGA Tour: 1995
College: San Jose State University
Website: www.tracyhanson.com
Favorite Scripture: Isaiah 42:16
Growing up, I centered my life around athletics. Playing
sports gave me the motivation to stay out of trouble, and I found
significance in my athletic accomplishments.
I always knew there was a God, but it wasn’t until my freshman
year of college that I learned Jesus Christ died on the cross and I
could have a personal relationship with Him. I now know God loves
me for who I am in Christ, He forgives my sins, and He wants to be
the center of my life.
Through many ups and downs I have learned my strength cannot
be found on the golf course, in my possessions, or in other people.
As I’ve turned my life and career over to the Lord, I find my strength
in Jesus. He is in control of my life.
This card is not affiliated with or endorsed by the LPGA
Anthony Maher
Milwaukee Wave
Position: Forward
Ht: 6-0 • Wt: 180
Favorite Scripture: Phil.4:13; Ps. 37:4
Growing up in a Christian family, I had the
benefit of a praying mother, along with my father as the spiritual leader
at home. I accepted Christ as my Lord and Savior at an early age.
In my teen years, I struggled and made some poor decisions. Yet, I
always sensed God’s presence and special protection covering me. I
began to discipline myself to attend church and read my Bible, but it
was more out of routine than an intimacy with Christ.
Soccer was my number one passion! I made detailed “soccer timelines” to chart my progress and goals to be a top level player someday.
During this time, God interrupted my well-written plans and caused
me to be traded. God then placed me where I was surrounded by
strong Christian mentors who helped refocus my faith in God. I made
a fresh commitment to put God first. Despite inevitable setbacks that
come my way, my rekindled relationship with Jesus sustains me. He’s
the sole source of my strength.
www.aia.com
Photos: Cory Zimmermann - Z2 Marketing + Design
This card is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Major Indoor Soccer League or the Milwaukee Wave.
Michael Scurlock
Defensive Back
Position: DB • Ht: 5-11 • Wt: 195
College: University of Arizona
Favorite Verse: Romans 12:1
Pro Teams: Carolina Panthers and
St. Louis Rams • Highlights: 2-time Pro Bowl nominee;
awarded Rams Attitude Award by Head Coach Dick Vermeil
It is easy to look good on the outside; however, when you’re
struggling on the inside, life can become a battle off the field.
The NFL Combines, the NFL draft and the “BIG MONEY” contracts
were exciting, but not enough to fulfill me as a person. Throughout
my career as an athlete, God has challenged me in my faith, my
obedience and my will to serve Him and Him alone. In Romans 12:1,
God calls us to offer our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing
to God, this is our spiritual act of worship. We must keep our eyes on
Jesus Christ (our Lord and Savior) and not the things of this world.
God wants to use each and every one of us for His purpose and glory.
How we live our lives is much more important than the length
of our lives. Anyone can occupy space. Let God use you to make a
difference.
Romans 10:9-10 says, “If you confess with your mouth, Jesus is
Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead,
you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are
justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.”
www.testimonycards.com
This card is not affiliated or endorsed by the NFL or Carolina Panthers.