The Azusa Pacific women’s soccer team returned from a 10-day tour in Colombia, where the team spent time serving the community while playing against several elite teams on the field. Throughout all of the experiences the team had during their time in Colombia, the Cougars were able to integrate their faith and share the gospel with those they came in contact with.

“What a joy it was to watch my girls serve, play, laugh, cry and share with each other. There were so many moments that I was incredibly proud of them,” said Head Coach Brooke Lincoln“…my heart was so full of joy, peace and gratitude.”

During their time in Colombia, the team served in four sectors (neighborhoods) by rolling out soccer balls and playing with the children. A highlight for everyone was visiting the New Jerusalem Sector – a place where refugees have settled. The children were extremely joyful and were able to connect with the Azusa Pacific players and coaches through their love of the sport of soccer. Many players also shared their stories/testimonies at the beginning of each sector’s training and many seeds were planted through their willingness to share.

“My favorite part of the trip was definitely playing with the kids in their sectors/neighborhoods. It was so cool to see how God moves and communicates through soccer,” said senior midfielder Hannah McLain“It was amazing to see the kids and our team bond just by passing the ball around… It was one of the best experiences of my life.”

Senior goalkeeper Maddie Williams also shared: “My favorite experience was going to all the sector trainings and playing soccer with the kids. We were able to share not only our love for soccer, but also our love for God.”

Two players made the decision to make Jesus the Savior and Lord of their lives and the group saw three baptisms on the Sunday afternoon they were there. The team also visited a local church and were reminded that God is so big and works all over the world.

First year midfielder Julia Galdamez stated: “This experience reminded me of God’s unconditional love for us and how we are to live life with our trust in Him who is greater… I feel so much closer to my coaches, my teammates, and God after allowing myself to be open to discomfort and obey in situations that glorify God.”

From a playing standpoint, the team played three games and had two formal training sessions in Colombia. It gave the incoming 2024 squad a chance to be together and build chemistry on and off the field. The team went 3-0 while scoring 13 goals and conceding just one. Lincoln and the team said the country was alive and the streets were filled with passionate soccer fans. Every day they saw people of all ages playing from dawn until late at night – sometimes one in the morning. Lincoln shared, “Fields were always full when we walked by and although soccer is still somewhat limited, we hope we were able to encourage and empower those who played.” Lincoln continued, “I believe our players will be playing for a greater purpose this fall after our experience in Colombia.”

Not only did we get to play the game we love with other passionate players, but we also got to share the word of the Lord with the people we met,” the freshman defender said. Paris Coleman“I heard testimonies, witnessed baptisms, and even prayed for and with the people I had the privilege of meeting. I experienced the love of God through every person I came into contact with in Colombia.”

After a successful and meaningful trip to Colombia for the 2024 women’s national soccer team, they are now looking ahead to what the upcoming season has in store. Lincoln will have 17 players returning and welcome 13 to the 2024 squad as they begin training soon for the competitive slate ahead. The Cougars are looking to have another successful season on the field as they kick off with an exhibition match against Hope International on Friday, August 23 at 7:00 PM at the Cougar Soccer Complex.