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| Momentous Match-UpDear Friends: Many San Diegans had high hopes that the Chargers might make the Super Bowl this year. Alas, those dreams did not come to pass. However, February still looks to be a thrilling month for local sports fans. The long awaited match up garnering eager anticipation is that between The Bishop's School Varsity Girls Soccer Team (featuring Lizz at outside left midfield) and the Francis Parker School Varsity Girls Soccer team (featuring Christina at outside right midfield). I have watched a lot of soccer games in the last 12 years, but never have I seen my two daughters matched up face to face on opposing teams. Lizz, the high school senior, has scouted the opposition by attending one of her sister's games and making an appearance at the opponent's pre season team party. Christina, the high school freshman, is keeping her mouth closed on team strategy and strengths. Last time the two schools faced each other was in the semi finals of last year's CIF play offs. The game outcome came down to penalty kicks (which means that an entire game, plus overtime periods, had been played without determining a winner). In February, league play will bring them together twice, once at each school. If you're waiting for this story to have a theological implication, I'm not sure there is one. Sports give the opportunity to develop physical strength, skill, and discipline, and to test one's character, if not one's faith. My girls have enjoyed their soccer involvement over the years as one part of a multi-faceted life. I don't think God takes sides in athletic contests, but I do think prayer can help players to focus, give their best, and remember their values of integrity, fairness, and respect for others. I don't have to worry about which to team to cheer for; I can just yell, "Go number three!" Through some strange "coincidence," both Lizz and Christina are wearing jersey #3 for their respective teams. If you would like to come and cheer with me, you are quite welcome to attend either or both of the games. On Wednesday, February 2, the match up will be at 3:30 p.m. at Francis Parker. The school is located at 6501 Linda Vista Road, a little way east of the intersection with Via Las Cumbres. There is a light at the main gate. The field is at the east side of the campus, with parking adjacent and metal stands for seating. On Friday, February 18, again at 3:30 p.m., the game will be at Spanos Field, located in Pacific Beach behind Kate Sessions Elementary School. The school is at 2150 Beryl, not far west of Soledad Mountain Road. You can either park on the street and walk through the school campus to the back of the playground where you will at last see some stairs going down to Spanos Field OR you can look for parking behind the UCC church and walk UP some stairs from the back of that lot. It's a little tricky, but don't give up! There really is a field back there. Also, this tends to be more of a "bring your own chair" situation. Then again, some people prefer to pace up and down along the sideline. Better luck next year to the Chargers, and don't forget to bring some canned or dried soup to church on "Souper Bowl Sunday!" God's grace and peace to all, Pastor April |
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