DIRIAMBA, NICARAGUA – The following is a series of first-hand accounts of Carson-Newman volleyball players and coaches on their missions trip to Nicaragua. 

Isaiah 6:8 "I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me."

Sophomore Outside Hitter Rachel Harper

Today was our last day in Matagalpa. First we went to a volleyball clinic where we taught 50 middle school-aged children at their school. Compared to other things we have witnessed here, I would say this was a much more well off area of town.  Compared to the USA, it was still a poverty-stricken area; however, these girls were rich in heart with joy and laughter. I could barely teach one group of young ladies because they just couldn't stop laughing and enjoying our company. After the clinic was over, Lindsey Wells talked to the girls. She told them about the love Jesus has for them, how He is our best friend. She did an amazing job; I am so happy to have her as a teammate. When she finished speaking, it was time for some pictures. While most of us were taking pictures with the girls and laughing with them, God was moving through a young girl's heart.

This 13-year-old girl spoke with Lindsey about how there aren't many good best friends here, so her mom had always filled the role of being her best friend. But now, she realized that Jesus is her best friend, and decided to live her life for Him. He is alive and has made that known to us in so many different ways throughout this trip, but the last place I expected to see that was at a middle school volleyball clinic at one of the more well off schools. We have so many clinics at Carson Newman throughout the year that are set up exactly the same way as this one, yet nothing like this had ever happened. I am so thankful that He proved to us that He can truly work on our hearts anywhere and everywhere.

Next we went back to the hotel, packed up our stuff and began the two our journey to Managua.   But Judy had one last surprise in store for us in Matagalpa, ice cream from downtown Matagalpa. It was delicious!  Once we had our ice cream, we were ready for Managua.

This trip has been life changing for me. I am so thankful that God allowed us to travel here together as a team. He is an astounding God. I have learned so much more about His love and mercy throughout this one week than I have learned in years. Many thanks to all the people who made this possible.  

Rachel Harper

Head volleyball coach Shannon Mincey

Our team has grown in so many areas. Last night we ate at a Pizza Hut and spent our dinner conversation discussing our disbelief of all the things we have seen.  I couldn't be happier as a coach to spend this week with my players. We look forward to coming home and shining for Him on the court. We will have a lot of work to do, but the most important thing is that our hearts have already been at work. Our passion is greater. We desire to make a change on campus. We will desire to Ignite Greatness!

 Coach Mincey

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