For nearly 20 years ball hockey has been the activity of choice on Sunday afternoons for young Christian Reformed men in Langley, British Columbia.
And the game that happens rain or shine has been what’s kept many of them connected to their local congregation.
“It’s a way for a bunch of young Christian guys to stay connected and experience accountability, love, and joy,” said Mike Nagtegaal, a longtime player. Nagtegaal is a member of Bridge Community Christian Reformed Church in Langley and has watched his sons and their friends grow relationships over the years.
Every Sunday, teams picked at random play for the Kool Aid™ Cup, named for the sweet drink. Each week, the winning players sip Kool Aid™ from the cup (a disguised pail), and their names are inscribed on it.
“For some of these younger guys the [game] has been church for them as they struggled through the tough stuff of growing up,” said Matt Beimers, also a member of Bridge Community.
About the Author
Jenny deGroot is a freelance media review and news writer for The Banner. She lives on Swallowfield Farm near Fort Langley B.C. with her husband, Dennis. Before retirement she worked as a teacher librarian and assistant principal.
