Glenville-Avon Football Teams Celebrate Victory in Faith

Football is about wins, losses and great rivalries.

“These pictures only tell a portion of the story.” – Nobles Darby IV

It can also be about much more than that, as proven by players from the Avon High and Glenville High football teams.

Just minutes after Glenvillle wrapped up its thrilling, 27-21, decision at Avon last Friday night, players from both teams gathered at midfield in a demonstration of faith and brotherhood.

It was the second year in a row that players from these two schools have come together in this way.

“These pictures only tell a portion of the story,” said Nobles Darby IV, Metro Cleveland Area Director for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. “Young men and adults came to salvation at the 50 yard line after the Glenville vs. Avon game.

“What God has built between these two programs over the last two years has been nothing short of amazing,” adds Darby. “I have to thank Coach Ted Ginn Sr. and Coach Mike Elder for believing in the vision of “ONE TEAM” and galvanizing these two communities in a way that will have eternal impact.

: Nobles Darby IV, Metro Cleveland Area Director for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes

: “Young men and adults came to salvation at the 50 yard line after the Glenville vs. Avon game.”

“Don’t tell me God can’t use a high school football game to bring souls into the kingdom. The name of Jesus WILL be lifted HIGH in the arena of sport.”

Through FCA’s ONE TEAM initiative, players and coaches come together under the goal of uniting inner city and suburban teams under the banner of faith, football and fellowship, stemming from Galatians 3:28 which declares, “for you are all ONE in Christ!”

Last year, the teams gathered in Avon for a round of practices and fun at the Avon Pool. This summer, 125 players and coaches met at Oberlin College. The athletes engaged in on-field competition, in addition to team-building activities to foster an environment of unity.

“We also were able to bring in NFL athletes Prince Amukamara and Justin March-Lillard to speak to the young men about the importance of pursuing your faith while playing your sport, along with hosting nationally-recognized Christian comedian Jason Earls.” said Darby

I have to thank Coach Ted Ginn Sr. and his entire coaching staff from Glenville and Coach Mike Elder and the entire staff at Avon for believing in this vision and having your team participate!