Hunter Trenaman Signs to Play Football at Centre College
On Friday, senior Hunter Trenaman, signed a letter of intent to play football at Centre College. The signing ceremony was opened in prayer by Director of Athletics, Darin Long.
When asked about choosing Centre College, Trenaman said, “I chose Centre because of the academic opportunity I will have there, as well as for their successful football program.”
“Not only will Hunter have a great opportunity to play football, but he will also get a great education at a school like Centre,” said CAL head football coach, Stefan LeFors. “He’s been a leader and an anchor for our team offensively and defensively the last two years. I’ll miss the energy he brings to the field.”
Hunter’s parents, Tracy & Kristen Trenaman, thanked coaches for helping Hunter succeed on and off the football field.
“As a parent, seeing what Hunter has done and the hard work he’s put in, I know he’ll be successful in life,” said Mr. Trenaman. “We are excited to see what the next four years hold.”
“I can’t say enough good things about Hunter. It’s been a pleasure watching him grow and being a part of his football experience,” said CAL assistant football coach and sports performance head coach, Greg Lile.
Trenaman ended the signing ceremony by thanking God, his friends, family, and teammates. “I’m ready to follow God’s plan for me at Centre,” said Hunter.
Hunter’s football achievements include being named All-State in Academics by the Kentucky High School Athletic Association (KHSAA), 2011 & 2012 Team Captain, All District Offensive Lineman (2011 & 2012), and Jefferson County East-West All-Star Team (2012). In addition to his football achievements, Hunter has received numerous academic accolades. Hunter has played football for CAL since the 5th grade and was also a member of the CAL Varsity Lacrosse team his freshmen, sophomore, and junior years.
Hunter looks forward to playing for the Colonels and plans on majoring in Pre-Physical Therapy.
John Calipari Basketball Camp at CAL
Christian Academy of Louisville will be hosting the John Calipari Satellite Basketball Camp Thursday, June 20. The camp is open to grades K-12. Sessions are 9 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1:30-4:30 p.m.CAL Alumni Seeking Championships in Both 2013 NCAA Tournaments
Tim Henderson and Antonita Slaughter, 2010 Christian Academy of Louisville graduates who both currently play basketball at the University of Louisville, are seeking championship titles in the NCAA Tournament and the NCAA Women’s Tournament, respectively.
This upcoming weekend the University of Louisville will be the only school in the country this college basketball season with a team in both the men’s and women’s Final Four.
“We are very proud of both Tim and Antonita. While at Christian Academy, they were each 1,000-point scorers, and had very successful basketball careers. It is inspiring to younger generations of student-athletes to see the God-given gifts and abilities of these two alumni in action at the college level,” said Darin Long, athletic director.
CAL Softball Marches to a 5-0 Tournament Record
After a tough 5-2 loss against the Butler Bears on Thursday, the Lady Centurions bounced back this weekend at the Bishop Brossart tournament in Northern Kentucky.
Friday night’s game against Boone County started off with two scoreless innings for the Lady Centurions. In the third inning, Caroline LeFan came up big with a single to right to center to score two. Cassidy Cook led off the fourth inning with a walk and Jessie Adamcyzk knocked her in for another run. The CAL ladies gave up two runs for a final 3-2 score.
Saturday morning’s game against St. Henry started off with a bang when Abby Woosley knocked a solid single to right field and advanced to third base on errors. Brittany Mumford claimed the RBI with an error by the second baseman. In the second inning, Abby Mattingly hit a solid shot to center field for a stand up double. Jessie Adamcyzk hit another stand up double to center to score Mattingly. Final score was CAL 7 St. Henry 1.
The Lady Centurions came right back with bats blazing. Taking on Campbell County, they continued to advance with an 8-5 win. Jessica Powell came up big with a solid triple to center field and Bailey Tipmore hit a shot to deep left to score a run. Next they took on Bracken County for another solid 3-0 win. Powell sent another rocket deep for a triple, followed by Caroline LeFan’s in the park home run to score two. In the third inning, Cookie came up big with a stand up triple to right center.
In the championship game, the Lady Centurions continued to look strong against Knoch County, PA. LeFan pitched her fifth game of the weekend to lead the Centurions to a 5-0 tournament record. Woosley, Powell, Mumford, Cook, Tipmore, Mattingly, and Adamcyzk all came up with big hits to lead the Lady Centurions to a final victory over Knoch 5-2.
Come out and support your Lady Centurions at home this week Monday versus Collins, Tuesday versus Southern and Thursday versus Assumption!
Austin Chelf Signs with Georgetown College
On Wednesday, March 20th, senior, Austin Chelf, signed a letter of intent to play football for the Tigers of Georgetown College. The signing ceremony was opened in prayer by Director of Athletics, Darin Long.
“Georgetown is lucky to have a person with Austin’s abilities on the field,” said CAL head football coach Stefan LeFors. “Fullback is a big position for the offense we run. He has been a huge asset for us. His willingness to sacrifice his body for his teammates will translate well at the college level. He never complains…that’s just the person he is.”
Chelf has played football for the Centurions since the 6th grade. He also made official visits to the University of Cumberland and Taylor University near Indianapolis before committing to Georgetown.
“I ultimately decided on Georgetown because of their winning tradition. Their coaches are honest and show a lot of integrity. It was close to home and I can succeed there as a student and a player,” said Austin.
“We are so proud of Austin. We are thankful to Coach LeFors and the CAL staff who have been such a wonderful influence on him. I don’t know much about football, but I love to watch him play. I look even more forward to seeing him become the man of God he was created to be,” said Paula Chelf, Austin’s mother. Austin’s father, Jeffrey Chelf also thanked coaches and mentors who have brought Austin to this place.
Chelf’s football achievements include all district team (2012) and a spot on the Louisville East/West All-Star game (2012). Austin looks forward to attending Georgetown in the fall and plans on majoring in business administration.
Chad Meredith Commits to Play Football at Southeast Missouri State
On Friday, senior, Chad Meredith,committed to play football at Southeast Missouri State University.
“SEMO is extremely lucky to have you,” said CAL head football coach, Stefan LeFors. “When I think of Chad, I think of his energy. Energy just pours out of him and it’s contagious. All the football accolades Chad has received don’t compare to the person he is off the field. It has been a pleasure and honor to coach him.”
Chad’s parents, Neil and Amy Meredith, thanked coaches, teammates, family, and the CAL Athletic Department for their support. “This is a great day for the Meredith family,” said Mr. Meredith.
Football has always been a part of Chad’s life. He has played football since 2nd grade at CAL. His football achievements include 2012 Class A District 4 Preseason Player of the Year, 2012 Blue Chip Football Academy Top Linebacker Award, 2012 Team Captain, 2011 All District Team, 2011 Team Defensive MVP.
Meredith thanked his coaches and teammates for their influence and developing him into the player he is today. Chad looks forward to playing for the Redhawks next year and plans on majoring in Business or Athletic Training.
The signing ceremony was closed in prayer by teammate, Hunter Trenaman.
CAL to Host Harry Greschel Invitational this Saturday
This weekend starts with a bang at the KYTrackXC.com Elite 5k Showdown being held at Centurion Field on Friday, March 22. This is a rare opportunity for high school competitors to run 5,000 meters on the track. Track fans witnessed the fastest boys’ race in Kentucky State History with two runners finishing under the 15:00 mark. Jacob Thompson (2012 Foot Locker All-American) of Holy Cross ran the best time at 14:49.75. CAL’s own Hannah Herd won last year’s girls race at 19:24. Overall, 6 competitors last year finished in the national top 40. You will not want to miss this FREE event. The first boys’ race (16:50 and above) is scheduled at 7:00 PM, with the girls running at 7:30 PM and the boys’ elite race at 8:00 PM. Don’t miss this exciting, elite running!
The CAL 6th Annual Harry Greschel Invitational takes over the CAL field on Saturday, March 23rd. CAL will host and compete with 26 other Kentucky teams, some of which are Ballard, Eastern, Mercy, Holy Cross, KCD, North Oldham, South Oldham, Oldham, St. X, Trinity and Sacred Heart. Some of the longest throws, highest jumps and fastest runs this year will be on display. Field events begin at 9:00 AM and running events at 9:45 AM. Shoes will be collected for EDGE Outreach. EDGE Outreach is an organization that provides poor communities around the world with clean drinking water and footwear. Saturday’s gate fee will be $5 adults, $2 children under 12, children 5 and under=free. Please come out to see some awesome athletics and also to intermingle with fans from other schools in a manner other sports don’t afford with the shuffling of fans from event to event together. This is such a privileged time to be able to share what bonds the Christian Academy community–Jesus–with the rest of the Kentucky athletics community!
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Taylor Smith to Play Soccer at UL
Senior, Taylor Smith, signed a letter of intent on Thursday, February 28th to play soccer for the University of Louisville Cardinals next fall.
Smith chose Louisville for their competitive soccer program as well as the opportunity to stay close to home. Taylor has played soccer at CAL for four years and was named All Region and All State her sophomore and junior years. Smith injured her shoulder and was unable to finish out her senior year with the Centurions.
“Taylor has been a leader from day one. While she is a quiet leader, she has led by example. She is one of the best goal keepers in the state and has truly been a difference maker in our program,” said CAL girls’ head soccer coach, John Zutt.
Taylor’s parents, Steve and Tina Smith thanked friends, family, and coaches for their support.
“Taylor has been blessed by friendships and adults who have poured into her. We are especially thankful to her coaches for teaching her about soccer, but more importantly about the Lord. We are so excited to see you fulfill your dreams,” said Tina Smith.
Smith is an undecided major and looks forward to playing goalie for the Cardinals who were ranked in the Top 20 last fall and signed six players this month. (http://www.gocards.com/sports/w-soccer/spec-rel/020713aac.html)
Coach LeFors Interviews with KySportsco
Christianity In Sports: Where Christ and Talent Collide
Growing up as a sports fan there were several Christian athletes to look up to. It was common to see players in the middle of the field praying before and after a game or to hear a player thank their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ during an interview. Today there are still players who use their platform to share the Gospel, but it seems that the culture around sports has changed with the culture in America.
Now, if a player thanks Jesus after a game, devotes time helping orphans overseas, or sings worship songs on the sidelines, it becomes something to be mocked and ridiculed on radio shows and on the internet. Sometimes a player is also worshiped in a way for being a Christian influence. Tim Tebow has become a player that is mocked and also worshiped in different circles. The fad of “Tebowing” came from him praying on the field. Several radio sport shows have bets of how quickly Tim Tebow will say, “I want to thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”
For my first post in this series on Christianity in Sports, I wanted to not only have the people I interviewed to define what a Christian athlete is and what they should act like, but I also wanted to know how God can use the platform they have to reach others with the gospel and make an impact on the people around them.
Interview with Ted Kluck: Ted Kluck is an author of several books like Facing Tyson, The Reason For Sports and Paper Tiger. He has also written articles for ESPN.com and ChristianityToday. Ted was a proffesional indoor foorball player, coached high school football and served as a missionary. To find out more about Ted visit his website TedKulck.com.
1. What should a Christian athlete look like, is it possible to be committed to Jesus and committed to your team?
TED: The answer to the second half of the question is yes, absolutely. This is like saying, “Is it possible to be committed to Jesus and your job as an insurance adjustor?” or “Is it possible to be committed to Jesus and playing the violin?” Sports are means by which we can, as believers, enjoy and glorify God. But like any other created, physical thing they can also be outlets for sin and idolatry. So as to what a Christian athlete looks like (besides exactly like Tim Tebow…kidding…sort of) my answer would be “someone who is walking in close communion with the Lord, spending time in the Word of God, repenting of and receiving freedom from sin and active in his/her local church.”
2. Is Tim Tebow too in your face with his faith, should he be more quiet about his faith?
TED: For me, just aesthetically, the Tebow thing gets a little old (if you’re a homeschool mom, pause now to dash off a piece of hate mail that you will then sign, “In Christ”). Seriously, I’ve been interviewed about this before and I’ve learned that it is absolutely FORBIDDEN in Christian culture right now to do anything besides completely fawn over Tebow (see: hate mail). Here’s the thing about Tebow: I love his courage, I love the way he plays the game, I love his work ethic, and I even love that he’s outspoken about his faith, to some degree. I especially love that he’s a Christian competing at a high level. I love that he’s made it this far. But to me the faith-based grandstanding is just a little bit much. If my kid knelt in the end zone in one of his pee-wee games I’d ground him for a least a week for upstaging his teammates and making a spectacle of himself. As to the second part, I don’t necessarily think he should be more quiet…just maybe more nuanced. As he gets older and matures on and off the field, I’d like to hear a little bit more of a “sin/redemption” Gospel message from Tebow. Right now he says, “I’d like to thank my Lord and savior Jesus Christ” at the beginning of each interview in the same way that Nascar drivers say, “I’d like to thank Valvoline for sponsoring the number fifteen car out there today.” It feels a little tacked-on. But then again, he’s just a really young guy. I’m happy to just enjoy watching him play and be thankful that he’s sharing his faith.
3. Why does it shock so many Americans that athletes like Tebow or Kurt Warner share their faith openly?
TED: I actually don’t think it shocks that many Americans. I think we Christians like to THINK it shocks many Americans. I think we sometimes like to invent martyrdom/persecution where none exists. If being persecuted means getting an opportunity to play a child’s game for millions of dollars at a high level, being continually given outlets to share your faith, and then making millions more in product endorsements…sign me up for that kind of persecution. Speaking of Warner, I think he’s an example of a guy whose message got more meaningful and nuanced as he got older.
4. Has American’s love for sports turned into idolatry?
TED: I think mankind’s love for ANYTHING has turned into idolatry, if that thing is not checked by an abiding love of Christ. Money, food, sex, and sports are just the obvious examples. When I was a young athlete, sadly, football was definitely an idol for me. I probably loved it more than I loved my redeemer. It’s been written that whatever it is that you think of the most, or whatever it is that you feel you couldn’t live without, is your idol. We would be wise, as believers, to heed that reminder, and trust in the Lord our God with all our hearts. I think if we trust God completely with our sports, He’ll bless us in that process – even though that “blessing” doesn’t always mean becoming a rich, famous, NFL superstar.
Interview With Stefan LeFors: Stefan LeFors played quarterback for the University of Louisville from 2000-2004. He later was drafted by the Carolina Panthers in 2005 in the 4th round. After a short time in the NFL, Stefan played in the Canadian Football League. He worked for the University of Louisville’s athletic department and also as a radio color commentator for UofL football games. LeFors is currently the head football coach at Christian Academy of Louisville.
1. As a former player, was it difficult to balance your devotion to the team and God?
Stefan: There were times, as a player, that it was difficult to have that balance. The schedule that a college student athlete takes on is rigorous. It is easy to fall off the straight and narrow but for me, I knew what my priorities were and I tried to the best of my ability to stick to it. I quickly learned that I was not the only one that was trying to find the perfect balance. There are always others that have been through it and it was vital for me to have relationships with those people.
2. How has Christ used your platform as an athlete/coach to witness to others? Any specific story that is more memorable?
Stefan: Athletes and coaches in the sports world, for some reason, are fascinating to many people. Fans felt like we were connected in a way just because I wore their favorite team’s jersey. This allowed me the opportunity to share my story about my family background. I was the only hearing child in my family. Both parents, an older brother, grandparents, most of my aunts and uncles are deaf. Being able to hear is definitely a blessing from God. I was able to share my story about how I ended up at a Christian school where I got saved in 8th grade. It was by the grace of God that got me into Christian Life Academy in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. That move my parents made to get me into the school changed my life forever. How I was able to get a football scholarship to the University of Louisville is another story that I would say was another amazing blessing from God.
3. Now as a coach, how do you encourage your players to represent Christ on and off the field?
Stefan: The biggest reason I am here coaching at Christian Academy of Louisville, is to develop these young men both spiritually and physically. Football brings a lot of life lessons to the table that I was fortunate enough to reap the benefits of. I try to love on these kids as much as I can and try to be a part of their lives. I am new to the coaching world, but I already know I was meant to do this. The instant connection I feel with these young men allow me the opportunity to encourage and strengthen their faith.
4. Is there a Bible verse that encouraged you as an athlete or that encourages you now as a coach?
Stefan: Jeremiah 29:11 This verse lifts me up every time because I know that wherever God takes me, I am willing to go. No matter what I want to happen or where I want to be, God is behind the scenes preparing the way. I just have to do my part to make sure I don’t miss the signs and listen to what God is trying to tell me.
Interview with Brian Kiser: Brian played for the University of Louisville basketball team 1992-1996. Brian was known for his three point shot as well as being a strong Christian. After graduating he served on staff with Fellowship of Christian Athletes, using to the influence of sports to reach others for with the gospel.
1. How does an athlete balance being a follower of Christ and being devoted to his team?
Brian: Certainly following Christ will cause an athlete to be less selfish in his sport. He realizes that the purpose of competing is to bring God more glory, not himself. Therefore he will become more of a team player, less focused on individual success. He should be an encourager, truly making the game more enjoyable for everyone else.
2. Is it hard to be a player when so many fans are worshiping the team or you as a player?
Brian: All athletes receive some level of attention from fans, classmates, etc. The Christian athlete is creative and quick to find ways to divert that attention to Christ, who is worthy of all glory.
3. Was there ever a time that you had to make a choice between what God says in the Bible and what a coach or team wanted you to do?
Brian: No. During my entire career at UofL, my coach and teammates always respected me and my faith.
4. Do you have a story about how Christ used your platform as a basketball player to reach others with the Gospel?
Brian: About 10 years ago I had the opportunity to go to Lithuania with 6 other Christian coaches. We worked an elite basketball camp and were able to share the gospel with all of the players each day. There is probably no country in the world where basketball is more popular than Lithuania. What a privilege to eat meals with these young men, stay in the same dorms, trade t-shirts, and explain to them biblical salvation. Romans 10:17 says, “Faith comes from hearing the message.” Basketball gave us the opportunity to be heard.
For me personally, this is a kind of journey as I dive into what Christianity looks like in the realm of sports. I think Ted Kluck nailed it when he defined a Christian athlete as “someone who is walking in close communion with the Lord, spending time in the Word of God, repenting of and receiving freedom from sin and active in his/her local church.” I still have many, many more interviews to come. I hope you will continue with me as I journey into more on how Christ can and has impacted the world of sports.
By Jon Hancock
Posted on 2/4/12 http://kentuckysports.co/home/entry/939-christianity-in-sports-where-christ-and-talent-collide
Centurion Swimmers Set New CAL Records at State
The Centurions finished their season on Saturday in DOMINATING fashion! The women finished 4th (second year straight) with 189 points, and the men made a giant leap from last year’s 27th finish to 8th place with 103 points.
“I couldn’t be prouder of both teams. We came out fighting on day one and really set ourselves up to have maximum scoring opportunities for day two. We made a serious statement to the swimming community today….CAL is on its way to being a swimming powerhouse!” said head coach, Amy Albiero.
Top finishers for CAL were: Hannah Magnuson, who had one of the best races of the meet, to win the 100 Fly in 55.16 (New School Record)and finished 2nd in the 100 back, and Estefan Albiero who finished 6th in the 50 Free in a tight field with a 21.69 and finished 4th in the 100 Free with a 47.30. Hannah was also named 1st Team All State.
The first event for both teams set the tone for the rest of the meet. The women (Hannah Magnuson, Rachel Hughes, Annie Holmes, Kendall Blomquist) 200 Medley Relay upset Manual, Notre Dame, and Paul Dunbar to finish 2nd behind Sacred Heart. This was the best relay finish in CAL women’s history, breaking the school record by 1.31 seconds. The remaining 2 relays were key as CAL finished 4th in the 200 Free Relay (Blomquist, Clark, Brown, Holmes) and 3rd in the 400Free Relay (Magnuson, Brown, Holmes, Clark), all new school records.
The men (Nick Albiero, Matthew Weiss, Austin Schaper, Jason Coultrap) won the consolation in the 200 Medley upsetting Dixie Heights and improving their time 1.37 seconds from the previous day. The other 2 relays were equally impressive and new school records with both finishing in 7th place, 200 Free Relay (Estefan Albiero, Weiss, Coultrap, Don Gates) and 400 Free Relay (Estefan Albiero, Schaper, Weiss, Coultrap).
The day kept getting better with individual finishes from Cameron Brown (6th 200 Free & 10th 500 Free), Kendall Blomquist (10th 50 Free, New School Record), Annie Holmes (13th 50 Free & 100 Free), Hope Clark (14th 50 Free & 15th 100 Free), Austin Clark (9th 500 Free), Rachel Hughes (10th 100 Breast, New School Record), and Austin Schaper (9th 100 Free). It was just an AWESOME day to be a CENTURION!