Uncommon Sports Group seeks to develop Christ-centered future leaders of the college and pro sport industry. A large part of how USG develops future leaders of sport is by funding its members to attend international mission trips that help develop them in their walks with Christ.
In June of 2024, USG traveled to Nairobi, Kenya, with a group of nine of its members and two staff for an eleven-day short-term trip. While in Kenya, USG served alongside local ministry partners in a variety of ways, as well as experiencing the local culture and scenery in Kenya. If you want to learn more about the trip to Kenya, you can read a detailed summary here.
Will Bale was one of the attendees on this summer's trip to Kenya. Will is a part of the USG community and currently is an Athletic Equipment Graduate Assistant at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). Below is a testimony from Will reflecting on his experience in Kenya:
"Before the mission trip, I had never experienced African Christian culture or traveled outside the Western Hemisphere. I vividly remember sitting in a church service on our first Sunday in Kawangware, listening to a sermon about overcoming fear. The central message was based on Psalm 56:3-4: "When I am afraid, I will put my trust in you, Lord." Hearing those words thousands of miles from home and feeling them resonate deeply in my heart opened my eyes to the limitless power of the Holy Spirit—a power that connects all believers, no matter where they live.Â
The hospitality and care shown by the local churches encouraged me to partner wholeheartedly in sharing the love of Jesus with children in the school and throughout the Kawangware community. I felt both challenged and emboldened to carry the Gospel to others, walking alongside fellow believers. The spiritual intimacy within our team further amplified our mission, as we uplifted and encouraged one another in Christ.Â
I am profoundly grateful for the life-changing experiences of this trip and the ways it has shaped my mindset. It deepened my approach to sharing the Gospel and being a faithful witness to Jesus. The Lord’s work extends far beyond what we can imagine, and I was privileged to witness His glory on a greater scale.Â
Noah and Erin’s leadership created an environment where each team member could thrive in our interactions—with one another, with the children, and with our partners in Kenya. I hope to continue reflecting the same care and consideration that the believers in Kenya showed me and our team in my own communities here in the United States."
Does Will's testimony inspire you? USG is excited to announce another mission trip to Kenya in 2025! This year’s trip will take place from June 19 to July 2.
Interested in joining? Apply here by February 8th.
If you’d like to learn more before applying, we’re hosting an informative Q&A webinar on Tuesday, January 28th, at 7:00 pm CST. Register today to join the conversation and have your questions answered!