Our newest member...

Emily, me, and Charles

It has been my dream and prayer since starting here at Shepherd to build and grow leaders who desire to use their gifts in sports to minister to others. Over the years, we have found a lot of men and women who fit this category and bless me every day with their service to the ministry. Our newest staff member has been serving as our Softball Coordinator since we started a year and half ago. Matt Ireton has come a long way in his faith and commitment to the Lord, and we are all excited about him becoming a full-time staff member of Shepherd Sports.

Matt will be overseeing all of our adult sports programs and focusing on the ministry of our captains and leaders within these leagues. As Matt and his family prepare for God's new calling on their lives, will you pray with me for the following:

• That the transition would be smooth and easy...
• God would continue to protect the Ireton family...
• God would lead and guide Matt in this new position of leadership...
• That Matt would bless all those he comes in contact with him...

Ride & Thrive...

This past Saturday I finally had a chance to join our Mountain Biking Ministry for one of their rides. Let me just say, what an experience. The views, the exercise, the fellowship...it was all awesome and worth every sore muscle I woke up with the next day. In the end we did close to 18 miles around the hills of Encino, about 17 more than I prepared for.

Our mountain biking leader Dave Schneider is incredible. He helped me get off my training wheels (wish that was a joke) and out with the big boys in no time. Dave's experience and knowledge in the sport of Biking is amazing. I was fascinated as Dave explained the intricacies and details of the sport. Who knew there was so much to know about riding your bike? Not only does Dave have vast knowledge and experience on the trails but he also has raced professionally, and it shows, as he often doubled back throughout our ride to herd those of us hanging in the rear.

If you have ever ridden a bike or have thought about getting out on a trail, I couldn't recommend a better guy to have by your side then Dave. He truly has a passion for the sport and loves to teach. You can check out the ministry's next ride at the Shepherd Sports website. http://www.shepherdsports.org/