At our campsite in the village of Zalissya, Rivne region, in June and July 2025, Nadiya Christian Soccer Club held two camps on the theme “Best Friend”. The first camp was organized for 20 children aged 7–8, and the second for 11–13-year-old football players.
Nadiya Christian Soccer Club from Rivne holds Christian sports camps for children of all ages, where in addition to soccer, coaches teach boys the basics of discipline and initial physical training. For boys aged 7–8 and 11–13, it is interesting and useful. The camp had good food, fun activities, interesting games, walks in the forest, and most importantly, the children heard the Gospel, were under a healthy biblical influence, and received correct life instructions from Christian mentors.
The theme of the camp is “Best Friend”. Using the example of David and Jonathan’s friendship, the children learned to treat their friends correctly and came to the conclusion that our best Friend and Brother is Jesus Christ, who gave His life for us, offering friendship to all who believe in Him.
Most of the children were from the Nadiya club, a third were children who were invited to participate in the camp. There were also boys who attended our training a few years ago, but now for various reasons do not go.
Each of the camps lasted one week and was interesting and eventful. For some reason, God made it so that each topic of a particular day in practice did not coincide very much with the theory. For example, if the topic was “Your best friend considers you bigger and more important than yourself,” then for some reason the boys were constantly drawn to manifestations of selfishness throughout the day. They had to constantly intervene, sort out conflicts, teach how to build relationships, love their neighbor as themselves… It was not easy, but thank God, He gave the necessary words and patience.
What struck me most was the difference in behavior and words between the boys who go to Nadiya and those who don’t. You can feel the influence of the world and the lack of the influence of God’s Word. Once again, you are convinced that biblical upbringing and Christian influence play a big role in the lives of children.
The time in the camps flew by with interesting events and games. Summer vacation is ahead and, if the Lord permits, a new season.
I sincerely thank everyone who prays and supports our Nadiya Christian Soccer Club and in general the preaching of the Gospel through sports.
Oleksandr Honchar
