On a clear and crisp Saturday morning in March, a group of men gathered at Colonial’s athletic fields to participate in one of the church’s newest ministries – the Men’s Soccer League.

The event was an “open soccer day,” a chance for men from Colonial and the community to gather together for casual play and to build new friendships. It was also a way to build interest in the upcoming Spring Soccer League, only the second season for the fledgling ministry.

Last year, the Men’s Soccer League began the way that many other ministries at Colonial have: as the result of one person stepping forward to ask about an opportunity. That person was Luciano Carducci.

“A year ago, while I was coaching one of the 6th & 7th grade soccer teams here at Colonial, I asked [Sports Ministries Director] Chad Poprocki if I could use the field for a soccer game between adult men. Chad told me that if I wanted, I could initiate a men's league,” said Luciano. “Well, a few months later, after some meeting and prayers, we started the first Men's Soccer League ministry season.”

The first season consisted of two teams and 26 players. Luciano, who is responsible for organizing the league, as well as playing and coaching, hopes to see the numbers grow for the upcoming spring session. “This year, if God is willing, we hope for a four-team league,” he said.

The league is open to all men 18 and over, not just Colonial church members. In addition to giving participants the opportunity to engage in healthy competition, the league is intended to address their spiritual needs as well. Games are opened and closed with prayer, and weekly practices include a gospel presentation.

Luciano encourages anyone interested to invite their neighbors or coworkers and show up for the next open soccer day from 9am to noon on Saturday, March 24th. The spring league begins April 14th.

For more information about the Men’s Soccer League, visit www.colonialsports.org.