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.
