Player Ministry Spotlight - Josh Westerman

This week we took some time out with Josh Westerman a Player Minister from the USA who is currently serving through Football in Kenya. Again we threw some questions his way, so we hope this may encourage you get a glimpse of how God is working in other areas of the world. Take this opportunity also to pray for Josh in his continued service through Player Ministry. Take a look...........

Age: 25

Hometown: Oregon City, OR

Brief football playing history:
Professional experience
- Nairobi City Stars 2008-2009 Kenya Premier League, Nairobi, Kenya
- Cleveland City Stars 2007-2008 United Soccer League, Cleveland, Ohio
- Battswood Football Club 2007 Vodacom Pro League, South Africa
- Cleveland Internationals 2006 Premier Development League, Ohio
- Cascade Surge 2005 Premier Development League, Oregon

College and University
- Gonzaga University 2004-2006 Division 1, Spokane, Washington
- Yavapai College 2002-2004 Junior College, Prescott, Arizona

Position: Defensive Midfielder

Current Club and where:
Nairobi City Stars, Kenyan Premier League.

Testimony:
I started playing soccer at age 4. I remember thinking, “Wow! This is really fun!” As I grew older it became more than a game, it was life. I often played on 2 or 3 teams simultaneously! Through youth club, high school and college I won many championships and awards. I continued to get better, but felt very empty inside. I grew up in the church, but didn’t completely surrender and make a commitment to Christ until I was 20. It was then that I stopped playing for myself and started playing for God. I finally found happiness and had a purpose! There is no better feeling than using the gifts God has given you to glorify Him! I play for His glory alone, and I wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for Him. “Proverbs 3:5-6”

Why Kenya:
The opportunities to serve God and play the game I love in Kenya were too good to pass up. I have a big heart for Africa and the people here. I am currently running the community outreach for the NCS team alongside playing. It is incredible to see many people coming to Christ in the slums through soccer!

How do you use football as a tool to share Jesus Christ?
Football is a very effective tool to share the Gospel, especially in Africa where football is the biggest sport. I always have opportunities to share my faith through the way I play, the media, outreach in the slums and also through Bible studies with other players on my team. In most cases it’s not about what I say on a daily basis, but how people see me living my life.

What is player ministry to you?
It’s being a light at all times to the other players, coaches and fans. Allowing others to see Christ working in and through you. Actions speak louder than words. Stay humble and play your best. Once people see this they will want to know what’s different in you. Be ready to share and spend time in prayer. God will use you to plant seeds in hearts and maybe even lead someone to Christ.

Key aspects of Player Ministry?
Prayer - Prayer is extremely important and will be your biggest asset in this ministry. Pray before and after every practice and game. Pray for opportunities and ways to build relationships with players and coaches. One thing you can do is walk around the field praying before practice starts.
Building Relationships - This is a very PATIENT ministry. It takes time to build relationships and gain respect as a person and player. Let the players see Christ working in you. Actions speak louder than words. With a servant’s heart, be quick to lend a helping hand. Let your attitude and effort be a witness on and off the field. Work as hard as you can during practices and games. Encourage each player and stay positive at all times. Be quick to listen and slow to speak. Keep smiling and show them you care about them. You will be amazed at how the players start to open up to you after they see this. They will genuinely ask you questions and want to know you.
Discipleship - Whether leading a Bible study for players or 1 on 1 discipleship. Share your faith with the other players and help them grow.

What/Where next?
My contract ends in December and I will either look to play another season here or go back to the US. Not sure where and if I will play, but trusting God for his amazing plans!

What’s God been saying to you recently?
To trust in Him and stop worrying.

Prayer points?
For the other players on my team. Most are not Christians and need to find Jesus!