Rich Henderson on left(Philippine Challenge) and Coach Tine Hardeman (Faith Academy) are hereos of the faith. Rich is from Montana dropping everything to grow sports ministry in a third world country. Rich knows Scotty Kessler from the 80's who is one of my mentors. Amazing how small the world is.
Tine Hardeman had to choose between the LA Lakers and Ventures For Victory in the 1950's. He left the states and never looked back. His story is amazing. Tine has played over 3500 basketball games in numerous countries. His team shared the Gospel in every one of those games at halftime.
Tine founded Faith Academy in the Philippines in the 50's for children of missionaries. We visited there with Tine yesterday. He wrote a book called "The Real Game" about his life playing basketball for Jesus. Tine told me yesterday, "I would not change places with Wilt Chamberlain or Bill Russell for anything."
During our conference, we celebrated Tine's 78th birthday. Pastor Gary asked me to pray for him as a part of the presentation. I wept as I tried to formulate a prayer for a true Legacy Builder. One of the greatest impacts on my journey here has been meeting Coach Tine and aspiring to follow his courageous example.
He also joined us in Cebu and he shared with me how he shared the Gospel with the cab driver on the way from the airport. A true warrior for souls! Be encouraged.
Posted on
Thu, March 11, 2010