The Soccer Psalms! Just in time for Christmas, I am releasing a new book. You can also find The Football Psalms (an anglicized version) if you appreciate the different terms around the game. The books are available on Amazon and contains 31 psalms that have been translated into “soccer psalms.” I include some reflection on the context and writing as well as some questions for reflection. Check out the book!
Today, on the podcast, I read—Psalm 133 and Soccer Psalm 133—from the book and share the reflection. Isn’t wonderful when the team, or the family, or the office, or the church moves together in a sense of unity? That’s the subject of today’s podcast and The Soccer Psalm!
From the Touchline is a short-feature (10-15 min) podcast with Rev Brad Kenney, Founder and Executive Director of Soccer Chaplains United and Volunteer Chaplain to the Colorado Rapids of Major League Soccer. Rev Brad and occasional guests touch on various issues around the topics of faith, family, and football (soccer).
Also, don’t forget that you can listen in our app, SoccrChapUtd,in the Apple and Google store.
Soccer Chaplains United announces that Clint Moore will take the final steps away from his role as chaplain to New Mexico United and concluding his service with the organization. Clint has been a key figure in the team’s spiritual care since 2019, initially serving informally and unofficially, and then moving into the volunteer role more fully from 2021-2023. A change into a different workplace meant less time to give to the chaplaincy in 2023, but now he will transition off to focus more fully on his work and family.
Clint’s journey with Soccer Chaplains United began nearly seven years ago when New Mexico United, the professional soccer team based in Albuquerque, was announced as an expansion franchise in the USL Championship. From the outset, Clint felt called to be involved with the team and serve the city of Albuquerque through this new professional sports platform. Having a strong passion for missions and community, Clint began praying about how best to connect his pastoral role with the soccer community.
“NM United is a special club. Being able to connect with players, coaches, and front office across the years has been a special blessing and joy to me,” said Clint. “It’s meant walking through life’s challenges off the pitch and behind the scenes. It’s meant integrating God’s truth through the dynamics of professional sport, and it’s meant helping players arrive well in ABQ and leave well to the next chapter.”
After reaching out to his network of pastors and connections within the soccer world, Clint was introduced to Soccer Chaplains United founder, Brad Kenney. Through a mutual connection with former Colorado Rapids player Mike Graczyk, who was involved with the University of New Mexico’s soccer program, Clint was invited to explore the possibility of partnering with Soccer Chaplains United to officially serve as chaplain to New Mexico United.
Clint’s informal chaplaincy work with New Mexico United began during a time of global uncertainty, including the COVID-19 pandemic, when his availability to the team was more flexible. While serving in a voluntary capacity, Clint became a trusted figure within the team, providing emotional and spiritual support to players and staff.
During this time, Clint’s heart for mission and service resonated strongly with the players, coaches, and staff at New Mexico United. His approach was simple: to serve the team without being a distraction, always offering help to those who sought it. This laid-back yet caring approach proved effective, and as the team’s need for more formal spiritual care grew, Clint stepped more fully into the role.
“We’ve been blessed to have Clint part of our team and aiming for continuity of service these many years,” said Soccer Chaplains United Executive Director, Brad Kenney. “Clint has been an invaluable asset to New Mexico United and to our chaplaincy team. His heart for the city of Albuquerque and for the soccer community has shone through in everything he’s done.”
Moving forward, Clint will continue to focus on his work at Sandia Labs and his family. He has been teaching part-time at Oak Grove Classical Academy, where he is a Leadership Formations Teacher.
“I’m sad to see this chapter of ministry end, but I’m hopeful (and committed to helping) SCU find a chaplain for NM United,” Clint reiterated. “I’m eager to focus on my current job and discipling my family, especially as my sons look to finish up their last two years of high school.”
As Soccer Chaplains United looks ahead, they remain committed to regrowing the chaplaincy team serving New Mexico United.
Soccer Chaplains United is non-profit, 501(c)3 and depends upon the financial support of our partners to carry out our work of developing chaplaincy across all levels of soccer. Please consider making a contribution today to help us continue growing our work. Our chaplains are not employed or paid by any of the clubs that we serve. Check out our Donation Page with all the different options. Or, simply click the PushPay link below to make a secure, online, tax-deductible gift, or mail a donation to Soccer Chaplains United, PO Box 102081, Denver, CO 80250.
https://soccerchaplainsunited.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/455826715_10163734730464465_2315550907441957396_n.jpg6641024Brad Kenney/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/SCU_Seal_Logo-300x300.pngBrad Kenney2024-12-05 00:00:002024-12-03 14:57:11Moore Makes Final Transition Away From Serving New Mexico United
The Soccer Psalms! Just in time for Christmas, I am releasing a new book. You can also find The Football Psalms (an anglicized version) if you appreciate the different terms around the game. The books are available on Amazon and contains 31 psalms that have been translated into “soccer psalms.” I include some reflection on the context and writing as well as some questions for reflection. Check out the book!
Today, on the podcast, I read—Psalm 23 and Soccer Psalm 23—from the book and share the reflection.
From the Touchline is a short-feature (10-15 min) podcast with Rev Brad Kenney, Founder and Executive Director of Soccer Chaplains United and Volunteer Chaplain to the Colorado Rapids of Major League Soccer. Rev Brad and occasional guests touch on various issues around the topics of faith, family, and football (soccer).
Also, don’t forget that you can listen in our app, SoccrChapUtd,in the Apple and Google store.
Soccer Chaplains United announces that Tate Madzima will be stepping down from his role as co-chaplain for New Mexico United, at the end of this season. Tate’s decision comes as his growing responsibilities at Desert Springs Church in Albuquerque, where he serves as the Children and Families Pastor, require more of his time and focus.
Tate joined Soccer Chaplains United in 2022, bringing with him a unique set of skills and a deep passion for both ministry and soccer. His background, having grown up in Harare, Zimbabwe, combined with his experience as a pastor and his love for the sport, made him a valuable addition to the chaplaincy team. Through his work with New Mexico United, Tate served the team by providing spiritual care, pastoral counseling, and mentorship to players, coaches, and staff.
“Serving as chaplain for New Mexico United has been a unique opportunity— to connect with the players and the soccer-loving community of Albuquerque,” Tate said. “It has been a blessing doing that as part of Soccer Chaplains United because of the support from like-minded men and women working as chaplains in other cities with other teams. It’s an amazing network and brotherhood that continues to serve the people of soccer as they move from city to city.”
Tate’s journey into chaplaincy began years ago when he moved to the United States in 2004 to attend the University of North Texas. As a student, Tate felt a strong calling to ministry, which led him to seminary and ultimately to full-time pastoral work. He also served at The Village Church during his time in college. His connection with Soccer Chaplains United came through Clint Moore, who reached out to Tate as the chaplaincy role for New Mexico United was expanding.
Tate’s appointment as co-chaplain for the professional soccer team added to the growing roster of chaplains within Soccer Chaplains United. As the chaplain for New Mexico United, Tate’s role was to provide emotional and spiritual support, leveraging his ability to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds. His international upbringing and experience balancing family and ministry life resonated deeply with the players.
However, as Tate’s ministry responsibilities at Desert Springs Church have expanded, particularly in his role overseeing children and family programs, he has found it increasingly difficult to balance the demands of both commitments. After much prayer and consideration, Tate has decided to step away from his chaplaincy duties with New Mexico United in order to dedicate more time to his family and the ministry at Desert Springs.
Tate’s departure marks a shift for Soccer Chaplains United, but the organization remains committed to finding the next volunteer chaplain to serve the athletes and staff at New Mexico United.
“Tate’s contributions to Soccer Chaplains United and New Mexico United have been invaluable, and we pray God continues to bless him as he continues to serve at Desert Springs,” said Soccer Chaplains United Executive Director, Brad Kenney. “We are grateful for his time with us and excited to see how God will continue to work in and through him as he focuses on his calling in ministry.”
We thank Tate for his service to New Mexico United and dedication to Soccer Chaplains United.
Soccer Chaplains United is non-profit, 501(c)3 and depends upon the financial support of our partners to carry out our work of developing chaplaincy across all levels of soccer. Please consider making a contribution today to help us continue growing our chaplains and our work. Click the link below to make a gift or check out our Donate page for different giving options.
https://soccerchaplainsunited.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/madzima-2_Original-edited-scaled.jpg19201278Brad Kenney/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/SCU_Seal_Logo-300x300.pngBrad Kenney2024-12-03 14:10:542024-11-18 14:11:14Madzima Moving On From the Uniteds to Focus on Desert Springs
Sometimes our story doesn’t quite go the way that we think it should. God often has plans for us (if we will see them) that go beyond our wildest dreams. My story and journey with soccer is very much like this — I would never have thought that I would be doing the work that I so thoroughly love and enjoy doing today.
Today, on the podcast, we dip back into the archives and replay a podcast which originally aired, April 11, 2018. Here I finish sharing my soccer story and how I became the volunteer chaplains to the Colorado Rapids.
From the Touchline is a short-feature (10-15 min) podcast with Rev Brad Kenney, Founder and Executive Director of Soccer Chaplains United and Volunteer Chaplain to the Colorado Rapids of Major League Soccer. Rev Brad and occasional guests touch on various issues around the topics of faith, family, and football (soccer).
Also, don’t forget that you can listen in our app, SoccrChapUtd,in the Apple and Google store.
Soccer Chaplains United is excited to announce that Jordan Medas is transitioning from his role as East Coast Chaplain Manager to a new position as Chief Administration Officer (CAO). In his expanded role, Jordan will oversee the onboarding and certification of new chaplains, manage educational equivalencies and training development, and contribute to enhancing the organization’s digital presence, including the website and social media channels.
Jordan has been a vital member of the Soccer Chaplains United team, bringing a passion for both ministry and soccer to his work. As the East Coast Chaplain Manager, he played a key role in supporting chaplains across the U.S., providing spiritual care to soccer players, coaches, and staff at various levels. His deep understanding of chaplaincy, coupled with his leadership experience, made him an ideal candidate for this new role.
In his capacity as CAO, Jordan will focus on streamlining the process of bringing new chaplains into the organization, ensuring they are properly trained and equipped to serve the soccer community. He will also develop and oversee educational programs to maintain high standards of chaplaincy and ensure the ongoing professional development of Soccer Chaplains United’s chaplain corps.
“I’m excited for this new chapter with Soccer Chaplains United,” said Jordan. “I’m looking forward to continuing to support the growth of the organization and helping to equip chaplains who can have a lasting impact in the soccer world.”
Jordan’s transition to CAO marks an important step in Soccer Chaplains United’s ongoing mission to provide spiritual care and support to athletes and teams across the nation.
Soccer Chaplains United is non-profit, 501(c)3 and depends upon the financial support of our partners to carry out our work of developing chaplaincy across all levels of soccer. Please consider making a contribution today to help us continue growing our chaplains and our work. Click the link below to make a gift or check out our Donate page for different giving options.
https://soccerchaplainsunited.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/8935269C-EDF2-4BC7-B830-5A41EE042F34.jpg14361440Brad Kenney/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/SCU_Seal_Logo-300x300.pngBrad Kenney2024-11-26 00:00:002024-11-18 13:49:17Medas Transitioning to Chief Administration Officer at Soccer Chaplains United
Soccer Chaplains United is pleased to announce that Wells Thompson, former professional soccer player, has joined its Board of Directors. Thompson brings a wealth of experience from both the soccer world and the business sector, as well as a passion for service and community engagement, making him an invaluable addition to the organization.
Thompson, a former midfielder who played for several Major League Soccer (MLS) teams, including the New England Revolution and Colorado Rapids, has long been an advocate for the power of sport to impact lives. Throughout his career, he demonstrated leadership both on and off the field, and he remains deeply connected to the soccer community through his work as an entrepreneur and mentor.
“I’m beyond grateful to join the board of Soccer Chaplains United,” Thompson said. “Their work isn’t just important—it’s personal. I’ve experienced how their spiritual care can change a life because it changed mine. Soccer has this beautiful way of connecting people, and what Soccer Chaplains United does goes so much deeper. They show up for players, coaches, and staff in ways that matter, not just for the game, but for life. I’m excited to give back and be part of something that truly makes a difference.”
As a member of the Board of Directors, Thompson will help guide Soccer Chaplains United as it continues to expand its mission of providing spiritual care and support to soccer players and staff across the U.S and beyond. Through partnerships with teams in various leagues, Soccer Chaplains United is committed to supporting the well-being of athletes both on and off the field.
“We’re thrilled to have Wells join our team,” said the organization’s Executive Director, Brad Kenney. “His background in professional soccer, along with his heart for service, will be instrumental as we continue to grow and serve the soccer community.”
Thompson’s appointment to the Board of Directors is a significant step forward for Soccer Chaplains United as it seeks to broaden its impact in the world of soccer. Well’s appointment sees the Board grow to eight with room, still to grow.
People always think that a chaplain in soccer must have played at a high level of the game. This is a bad misnomer, but usually chaplains in soccer have some love and affinity and connection to the game. And the same holds true for myself, (Rev Brad).
Today, on the podcast, we dip back into the archives and replay a podcast which originally aired, April 4, 2018. Here I share my soccer story — from playing a youth player in Arizona and the heights to which I did not reach. But I count it a blessing to be able to do the work that I do as a volunteer chaplains to the Rapids and I think God knew what He was doing in having my career in the game be less than glamorous. Today is part one of that story.
From the Touchline is a short-feature (10-15 min) podcast with Rev Brad Kenney, Founder and Executive Director of Soccer Chaplains United and Volunteer Chaplain to the Colorado Rapids of Major League Soccer. Rev Brad and occasional guests touch on various issues around the topics of faith, family, and football (soccer).
Also, don’t forget that you can listen in our app, SoccrChapUtd,in the Apple and Google store.
https://soccerchaplainsunited.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/From-the-Touchline-Cover-Art.jpg15001500Brad Kenney/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/SCU_Seal_Logo-300x300.pngBrad Kenney2024-11-20 00:00:002024-11-18 12:10:48My Soccer Story – Rev Brad
It’s always great to go out on top! And while we always knew that Felipe Olavarría would one day leave the US to return to his native Chile, we just didn’t think it would be this soon! Felipe joined Soccer Chaplains United late last year and had begun meeting with and serving the coaches, staff, and athletes of the United Soccer League — League One team, Union Omaha. The team won the League One championship this past Sunday, the second time in it’s history to win the top of the league and Felipe’s first full season with the team.
Felipe came to us on the recommendation of Kurt Trempert (former Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC volunteer chaplain for 9 years) and we were excited and pleased to see the continued growth of our volunteer chaplain group. However, Felipe and wife Taya, have always known that their road would lead back to Chile—but God sped up the timeline this year.
Felipe has been serving as an Associate Pastor at Millard Alliance and recently completed a degree program at Crown College. He will retain his CMA pastoral ordination, but will now be a missionary through Mission Quest with Millard Alliance, Omaha becoming the family’s sending church. Felipe will be planting in Santiago’s capital borough of Providencia. You can support their work to plant by clicking this link here to go to their Mission Questsupport page.
It has been one of my greatest joys to serve Union Omaha and to be supported by Soccer Chaplains United. It truly has been life-giving.
Felipe, on his time with Soccer Chaplains United
We pray God’s grace and strength as the Felipe pursues God’s continued call on his life and ministry. With great love and affection we say God bless and God speed! Please pray as we look for Felipe’s replacement with Union Omaha.
Soccer Chaplains United is non-profit, 501(c)3 and depends upon the financial support of our partners to carry out our work of developing chaplaincy across all levels of soccer. Please consider making a contribution today to help us continue growing our work. Our chaplains are not employed or paid by any of the clubs that we serve. Check out our Donation Page with all the different options. Or, simply click the PushPay link below to make a secure, online, tax-deductible gift, or mail a donation to Soccer Chaplains United, PO Box 102081, Denver, CO 80250.
https://soccerchaplainsunited.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/263-Felipe-Andre-Olavarria_1729195471_600x400.png400600Brad Kenney/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/SCU_Seal_Logo-300x300.pngBrad Kenney2024-11-19 00:00:002024-11-18 11:20:53Olavarrías Out of Omaha and On Towards God’s Providencia
Saint Martin of Tours’ Feast Day was November 11 — also known as Veteran’s Day (US) and Remembrance Day (UK). Advent (Celtic) begins November 15 — this season of 40 days preceding Christmas is a time of preparation and reflection. So what to talk about on the podcast that is sandwiched between the two?
Today, on the podcast, I talk about reflecting on the important people and important influences that have shaped our lives and helped us get to where we are, whether in our lives or our careers. But I also talk about the importance that different seasons have in our lives and how we ought to embrace what those seasons offer us in terms of spiritual, emotional, and physical preparations.
From the Touchline is a short-feature (10-15 min) podcast with Rev Brad Kenney, Founder and Executive Director of Soccer Chaplains United and Volunteer Chaplain to the Colorado Rapids of Major League Soccer. Rev Brad and occasional guests touch on various issues around the topics of faith, family, and football (soccer).
Also, don’t forget that you can listen in our app, SoccrChapUtd,in the Apple and Google store.
https://soccerchaplainsunited.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/From-the-Touchline-Cover-Art.jpg15001500Brad Kenney/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/SCU_Seal_Logo-300x300.pngBrad Kenney2024-11-13 00:00:002024-11-12 14:08:00In-between Saint Martin and Advent
We may request cookies to be set on your device. We use cookies to let us know when you visit our websites, how you interact with us, to enrich your user experience, and to customize your relationship with our website.
Click on the different category headings to find out more. You can also change some of your preferences. Note that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on our websites and the services we are able to offer.
Essential Website Cookies
These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features.
Because these cookies are strictly necessary to deliver the website, refusing them will have impact how our site functions. You always can block or delete cookies by changing your browser settings and force blocking all cookies on this website. But this will always prompt you to accept/refuse cookies when revisiting our site.
We fully respect if you want to refuse cookies but to avoid asking you again and again kindly allow us to store a cookie for that. You are free to opt out any time or opt in for other cookies to get a better experience. If you refuse cookies we will remove all set cookies in our domain.
We provide you with a list of stored cookies on your computer in our domain so you can check what we stored. Due to security reasons we are not able to show or modify cookies from other domains. You can check these in your browser security settings.
Other external services
We also use different external services like Google Webfonts, Google Maps, and external Video providers. Since these providers may collect personal data like your IP address we allow you to block them here. Please be aware that this might heavily reduce the functionality and appearance of our site. Changes will take effect once you reload the page.
Google Webfont Settings:
Google Map Settings:
Google reCaptcha Settings:
Vimeo and Youtube video embeds:
Privacy Policy
You can read about our cookies and privacy settings in detail on our Privacy Policy Page.
