Madzima Moving On From the Uniteds to Focus on Desert Springs
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.
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