This summer, hundreds of young refugees in a country near Iran are eagerly anticipating “Rock Academy” soccer (football) tournaments. One of them is Mahan.

Mahan has loved soccer for as long as he can remember, but because of a congenital limb difference, he wasn’t given the chance to pursue his passion.

Then, a few years ago, Mahan and his family became refugees in a country in the Iran region. In their new city, they discovered the local Iranian church had a sports outreach for young people called “The Rock Academy.”

Through the Rock Academy, for the first time, Mahan was welcomed in and encouraged as a player. Now, during his local academy’s regular sessions, 16-year-old Mahan plays on crutches with great skill and agility alongside his teammates.

“I love Rock Academy,” smiles Mahan. “Whenever I attend practice, I feel I am among my family.”

Many other young refugees have similarly found a warm and loving community in their local Rock Academy. Several have joined the local church and confessed faith in Christ because of the faithful witness of their coaches and mentors.

This summer, Mahan is excited for regional tournaments that will see Rock Academy teams competing against each other. The day-long events will be occasions to celebrate the joy, friendships, and belonging that the academies provide for hundreds of players throughout the year.

The Rock Academy leaders and local coaches are also praying for more opportunities to share the love of Jesus with Mahan, the other players, and their families during the tournaments. Please join them in praying:

• That the summer tournaments would deepen the sense of community and stability that the Rock Academies provide for these vulnerable young people

• For the coaches and the local churches hosting the various tournaments to know the peace and guidance of the Lord  

• For the hundreds of Rock Academy players and their families to taste and see that God is good as they engage with this church-led program

Thank you for your prayers and partnership which allow the Iranian church to reach out with love to so many young refugees through sports ministry.