Training Challenges are here!

chal·lenge (ˈCHalənj)
noun
- a call to take part in a contest or competition, especially a duel.

This definition for "challenge" includes some words that go right along with fitness training (contest, competition). But there's another important word I'd like to focus on briefly:
duel
It brings to mind two opponents facing off with swords or guns, competing for the sake of honor at the cost of their very lives. I don't expect that scene to happen on our soccer field any time soon (hopefully not!), but you can apply that one-against-one combat image to these Training Challenges. How? By considering each challenge as a fight. Against yourself.

Becoming a competitive soccer player will require you to develop (or improve) your physical, mental and spiritual fitness. It will require you to do more than just show up on game day--you will need to train and prepare in order to compete safely at your highest level, enabling you to contribute to the overall success of your team. These challenges can be part of that training and preparation and by definition, they will be difficult, maybe more difficult than anything you have tried before. But you CAN do them.
The only person who can get in your way is YOU. In fact, the greatest challenge you will face in the coming weeks is that of overcoming your habits, your weaknesses, your excuses, your decisions about how to spend your time.

I am praying for each of you as we start this journey. It will not be easy, but it will be worthwhile.

Jump in to the 2018 Training Challenges on our Facebook page (or sign up to receive them via e-mail)!