Play. Give Joy.
Our Story
Play4More™ soccer is about encouraging soccer players and families to play soccer for more
ROOTED IN SERVICE
How It All Began
My boys and I were looking for a summer service opportunity…
Play4More began with a simple belief rooted in our Christian faith: every child is created in the image of God and deserves to be seen, valued, loved, and given the opportunity to flourish.
As we looked around our community, we noticed that many refugee children who had recently resettled in our city lacked access to the summer camps, sports programs, and recreational opportunities that many other children enjoy. We felt called to do something about it.
Recognizing this need, we partnered with our local International Rescue Committee and high school and collegiate soccer players to host a free three-day soccer camp for approximately 30 refugee children. What started as a small community effort quickly became something much bigger. The camp was a tremendous success, revealing the powerful role that sports can play in helping children build confidence, friendships, and a sense of belonging. Today, that camp has grown into an annual tradition at Abilene Christian University.
As we got to know the children and their families, we realized that their desire to play soccer extended far beyond those three days each summer. We began organizing regular pickup games, creating opportunities for children to gather, play, and simply be kids. On the soccer field, they found moments of joy of connection. The games also became a bridge between cultures, bringing together volunteers, neighbors, college students, and community members who formed meaningful relationships through a shared love of soccer.
Through these experiences, we witnessed how something as simple as play could communicate dignity, hope, and God’s love in tangible ways. We saw children laugh, build friendships, and discover that they belonged. We also saw volunteers and community members grow in compassion and service as they invested in the lives of others.
These experiences inspired us to take the next step. We founded Play4More to expand our mission of serving vulnerable and at-risk children through the universal language of play. Guided by our Christian faith, we seek to demonstrate the love of Christ by creating opportunities for children to experience joy, community, encouragement, and hope.
Today, Play4More works to improve the lives of children around the world by providing quality soccer balls through trusted distribution partners, hosting domestic and international soccer camps, engaging college students in meaningful service opportunities through the creation of campus chapters, and providing scholarships that help students pursue vocational training and Christian higher education.
At Play4More, we believe that a soccer ball is more than just a piece of equipment. It is a tool for building community, creating opportunity, fostering hope, and sharing God’s love with children who need encouragement and support. Through the simple act of play, lives can be changed, relationships can be built, and communities can be strengthened.