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COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 1 Rebekah Couch 614.439.6056 Independent Advocare Distributor Phillip Couch 614.849.8875 Independent Advocare Distributor www.BoldChampions.com PERFORMANCE • SUSTAINED ENERGY WEIGHT MANAGEMENT • FINANCIAL OPPORTUNITY [email protected] • [email protected] COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 2 CONTENTS AND CREDITS Crusader history QUICK FACTS.......................................................................................... 4 About the crusaders........................................................................5 Crusader traditions.........................................................................8 Fight song..........................................................................................51 Meet the varsity staff Ben Barlow..........................................................................................11 Varsity coaching staff................................................................... 12 Support staff....................................................................................14 2016 SEASON OUTLOOK 2015 notable stats.......................................................................... 17 Schedule............................................................................................20 VARSITY CRUSADERS AND TEAM Roster..........................................21 Senior profiles............................................................................... 25 Photo Credits: Mike armentrout Cover and promo photos KeLAIah Conway KIRBY HSU Ben sam Action shots Lisa siders Official ATHLETE, TEAM, AND STAFF photos Cheerleading Meet the cheer squad.................................................................22 Coaching staff..................................................................................23 Publication: Middle school football Front cover Schedule........................................................................................... 30 MIDDLE SCHOOL CRUSADERS AND TEAM ROSTER.......................... 31 Coaching staff................................................................................. 32 Mike arementrout Design erin Barlow Youth tackle football Schedule...........................................................................................34 Team rosters and coaching staff............................................. 35 Youth advanced flag football Team rosters and coaching staff............................................. 40 Crusaders in the NFL Harold Jones-Quartey.................................................................47 Crusader facility...........................................................50 Keep up with the crusaders Directory................................................................................... 52 COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 3 Contributors Doug Bean Printing skladany printing center Crusader quick facts FOUNDED: 1996 FOUNDERS: MIKE CHEESEMAN, TOM ENSIGN, AND VICTOR MELFE MOTTO: HONOR JESUS FIRST TEAM COLORS: BLACK AND WHITE CURRENT TEAM COLORS: BLACK AND RED WHITE AND GRAY ACCENTS HEAD COACH: BEN BARLOW (CRUSADER 2002 ALUMNUS) FORMER HEAD COACHES: TOM ENSIGN (1996-1998) MIKE STANLEY (1999-2008) BRIAN STIER (2009-2011) PRACTICE FACILITIES: GRACE POLARIS CHURCH ON WORTHINGTON-GALENA ROAD (1996-2013) POLARIS CHURCH ON GEMINI PLACE (2014-PRESENT) HOME FIELDS THROUGH THE YEARS: UPPER ARLINGTON JONES’ FIELD (1996-2002) GRACE POLARIS STADIUM (2002-2012) OTTERBEIN UNIVERSITY MEMORIAL STADIUM (2012-PRESENT) OFFENSIVE SYSTEM: SPREAD DEFENSIVE SCHEME: 3-5-3 CRUSADER ATHLETICS ON THE INTERNET: WWW.COLUMBUSCRUSADERS.ORG CRUSADER ATHLETICS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: FACEBOOK COLUMBUS CRUSADERS YOUTH SPORTS INSTAGRAM @CBUSCRUSADERS TWITTER @CBUSCRUSADERS COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 4 Everywhere we go... People want to know... Who we are. Christ-centered, athlete-focused athletics with purpose. In 1996, men and women at Grace Polaris Church began a football program designed to be different. For 20 years, the Crusaders have built a ministry that seeks excellence in athletics balanced with intentional, Biblical character-building. The Crusaders disciple and train young people to emulate CHRIST: Commitment, Honor, Responsibility, Initiative, Service, and Truth. For Crusaders, as has been the long-time Crusader mantra, the overriding pursuit in all things is to “honor Jesus.” The Crusader coaching staffs strive to model Christ, mentoring and teaching young men and young women to live their lives according to God’s Word and to glorify Jesus Christ through their athletic talents. On the field, the Crusader coaches employ their many years of experience to develop strong, fundamentally-sound players, showing the qualities of toughness and humility, determination and service, perseverance and integrity. The Crusaders welcome anyone to be a part of what God is doing in and through our program! Our ministry has grown to offer flag and tackle football, cheerleading, basketball, rugby, and sports training camps and programs for athletes from kindergarten to grade 12. We serve any and every athlete Jesus sends our way from all school and church backgrounds. As our ministry grows, our focus continues to be guiding young hearts toward Christ and influencing families for the Kingdom of God. We invite you to join us! Whether as a player, parent, coach, financial partner, or prayer partner... God can and will use you to be a part of this ministry. For more information, visit www.columbuscrusaders.org. Find us on Facebook at Columbus Crusaders Youth Sports and on Twitter and Instagram at @cbuscrusaders. COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 5 OHIO STATE SPORTS MEDICINE: TEAM PHYSICIANS FOR THE CRUSADERS, THE BUCKEYES AND ATHLETES EVERYWHERE. If you want to improve your physical performance, recover from an injury or stay active for a lifetime, turn to the experts at Ohio State Sports Medicine. Lewis Center The team of doctors behind the Crusaders and the Buckeyes leads a comprehensive, interdisciplinary approach to the prevention and treatment of sportsrelated injuries with the bench strength of the best sports medicine physicians, orthopaedic surgeons, physical therapists, licensed athletic trainers, sports psychologists, sports nutrition consultants and clinical research specialists. D1 Dublin New Albany Hilliard YMCA Gahanna Ohio State Call 614-293-3600 to schedule an appointment. Grove City YMCA Opening October 2016: The Jameson Crane Sports Medicine Institute — the largest, most advanced sports medicine facility of its kind, giving patients even greater access to the best care in central Ohio. Learn more at go.osu.edu/sportsnews. COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 6 COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 7 CRUSADER TRADITIONS After 20 years as a ministry, the Crusaders have developed some unique traditions. Are you familiar with these Crusader customs? Crusader Colors In the early days, the Columbus Crusaders team colors were black and white. Red was later introduced as an accent color, with the three colors together representing Christ’s sacrifice for us on the cross- black symbolizing sin, red the blood of Christ, and white our sin washed white as snow. Over the years, the Crusaders adopted primarily red and black, adding accents of white and gray. One thing has remained: Crusaders always look sharp! Crusader Logo The Crusader logo has gone through a few revamps over the years. The many versions represent putting on the full Armor of God as referenced in the Bible in Ephesians 6. All logos have incorporated a shield, a sword, a Bible, or some combination of all three. Crusader Fight Song Sung to the tune of the University of Wisconsin’s “On, Wisconsin,” the Crusader Fight Song is sung following every Crusader victory. Each season, all Crusader players learn the fight song. As Coach Mike Stanley says, “Real men sing!” Crusader Hymn The Crusader Hymn, sung to the tune of The Ohio State University’s “Carmen Ohio,” was written with Crusader alumni in mind, serving as an Alma Mater. It clearly expresses the heart of the Crusader ministry to honor Jesus Christ. Post-Game Family Huddle & I Will Bless the Lord Following each Crusader game, whether a win or a loss, the Crusader family- parents, siblings, alumni, and fans- gathers with the team in the post-game huddle. At the end of post-game remarks, together they sing “I Will Bless the Lord,” a song chosen to refocus and remind all Crusaders that win or lose, we praise the name of Jesus Christ. I will bless the Lord and give Him glory; Oh, I will bless His name and give Him glory. Oh, I will bless You, Lord, and give You glory; Oh, I will bless Your Name and give You glory. Sing Twice A phrase first coined by Coach Ben Barlow in his inaugural season as Crusader head coach, following a Crusader victory, all Crusaders Sing Twice: First, they sing I Will Bless the Lord, and then, following team prayer, the Crusader Fight Song. The Sing Twice tradition was inspired by the annual Army-Navy football game where, post-game, both team’s fight songs are sung, with the victor’s sung second. Coach Barlow modified “Sing Second” to the Crusader’s “Sing Twice” as motivation toward and celebration of victory. COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 8 Sword Games Sword Games are significant match-ups recognized by the head coach when the Crusader team will take on an opponent they are not expected to beat. After playing and defeating that opponent, sword plaques are awarded to the team, highlighting the year, opponent, and final score. These plaques have traditionally been displayed in the Crusader locker room. The first Sword Game victory was a 13-10 defeat of Whetstone High School in 2003. Locker Room Sign Located above the exit of the Crusader locker room hangs an “Honor Jesus” sign. It is the ritual of each member of the Crusader team, upon leaving the locker room, to tap the sign in a demonstration of team unity. The sign serves as a reminder of the Crusader focus when heading to the field. Crusader Senior Tackle & Chapel Held during the last practice before the final game of the season, Crusader Senior Tackle and Chapel is a tradition to honor each graduating Crusader senior. During Senior Tackle, Crusader seniors have an opportunity to tackle a tackling dummy for the final time, each senior selecting underclassmen of their choice to hold their tackling dummy. After Senior Tackle, the Crusader team gathers with their coaches, parents, and the Crusader family for a special chapel, during which each senior is recognized and given a “blessing” by a Crusader coach. The traditional blessing is as follows: You are a Crusader forever, and I am glad. You are a special young man, and I am proud of you. I love you, and I always will. The Crusader blessing is modeled after Old Testament tradition, in which fathers speak a blessing over their sons. It is a tradition designed to encourage Crusader seniors as they move forward and remind them of the support they will always have available in their Crusader coaches. The blessing is commemorated with a framed covenant, signed by Crusader coaches, that commits to each player lifelong accountability, encouragement, and support. Honor Jesus Though some Crusader traditions have been modified over these past 20 years (and some more recently added!), the most significant tradition is the long-standing Crusader mantra, Honor Jesus. This phrase is heard after every team break, adorned on every item of Crusader apparel, and spoken by every Crusader alumni. Honor Jesus points Crusaders and non-Crusaders alike to the foundation of the Crusader ministry: No matter what we do, on or off the football field, we seek to bring honor and glory to Jesus Christ. Long after our players and families leave the Columbus Crusaders, we pray that phrase remains the motivation of their lives. COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 9 COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 10 CRUSADER HEAD COACH BEN BARLOW Coach Barlow began his tenure as Crusader Varsity Head Coach at the start of the 2012 season, but he has been a Crusader for 20 years, involved in many different ways since the early days of the ministry. He played all of his middle and high school football as a Crusader, graduating as an alumnus in 2002 after being a four-year varsity starter at safety, middle linebacker, and fullback. In 2003, Coach Barlow began his college career at Capital University in Bexley, Ohio, where he played middle linebacker and defensive end for the Crusaders (Yes, he was a Crusader twice!) It was the training and teaching of the Columbus Crusader staff and former head coach, Mike Stanley, that prepared him for his college career, not only as an athlete, but also a young man who desired to love, serve, and honor the Lord. Coach Barlow graduated from Capital in 2007 with a degree in Integrated Mathematics and Education, and he immediately rejoined the Crusader ministry as an assistant high school coach. During his college years, Coach Barlow was introduced to his wife, Erin, by none other than Coach Mike Stanley. Both he and Erin loved serving in the Crusader ministry; in fact, one of their very first ‘dates’ in college was to a Crusader game! “Having my whole family involved in this ministry is a tremendous blessing,” says Coach Barlow, “We believe whole-heartedly in what God is doing through the Crusaders, and I am thankful Crusader players and families can see my wife and I serving together with our kids.” Citing his life verse, 2 Timothy 1:6-7, Coach Barlow desires to continue growing in his passion for the Crusader ministry and developing the unique gifts God has given him to serve young men through football: For this reason, I urge you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love, and of self-discipline. Coach Barlow teaches Pre-Calculus and Calculus at Franklin Heights High School in Grove City, Ohio. He is the Crusader Defensive Coordinator and also coaches wide receivers and linebackers. He and Erin are the proud parents of two children, seven-year-old Sophia and four-year-old Samuel. COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 11 VARSITY COACHING STAFF DAKOTA ANDERSON Occupation: Auditor at Clark, Schafer, & Hackett Family: parents, Fred & Rhonda Anderson; brother, Aaron Coaching Position: Offensive & Defensive Line; Long Snappers Experience: First-Year Coach Playing Experience: Xenia High School; Ball State University Life Verse: John 15:13, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” JIM BAUMAN Occupation: Commercial Real Estate Family: wife, Lisa; four children, Lily, Jonathan, Joel, & Lena Coaching Position: Offensive & Defensive Line Coaching Experience: 20 years with Columbus Crusaders; 1 year with McCord Middle School Playing Experience: Worthington High School Life Verse: Philippians 3:13-14, “No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting what is behind and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus.” MIKE CHEESEMAN CRUSADER CO-FOUNDER Occupation: Building Contractor of Mike Cheeseman Builders Coaching Position: Offensive & Defensive Line Coaching Experience: 20 years with Columbus Crusaders Playing Experience: Northland High School Life Verse: Luke 8:8, “Still other seed fell on good soil. It came up and yielded a crop one hundred times more than was sown.” As founder of the Crusaders, it was my desire for my son, Luke, to have a place to play football. We started with 22 players and have since increased one hundred-fold and have had the opportunity to share Christ. Luke’s Crusader jersey was #88, and my Crusader verse is Luke 8:8. COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 12 VARSITY COACHING STAFF PHIL COUCH Occupation: Nutrition/Independent Distributor with Advocare Family: wife, Rebekah; four children, Kinzley, Braxton, Tristyn, & Macklin Coaching Position: H-Backs, Linebackers, Punting & Kicking Coaching Experience: First-Year Coach Playing Experience: Oak Creek (Wisconsin) High School/Tipp City High School; Georgetown University Life Verse: 2 Timothy 1:7, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, of love, and of self-discipline.” VICTOR MELFE CRUSADER CO-FOUNDER Occupation: Commercial Real Estate Appraiser Family: wife, Laura; four children, Alex, Molly, Mitchell, & Thaddeus Coaching Position: Quarterbacks, Defensive Backs Coaching Experience: 12 years overall with Columbus Crusaders Playing Experience: Hilliard Davidson High School Life Verse: Romans 12:1-2, “Therefore, I urge you brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then, you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is, His good perfect will.” MIKE STANLEY Occupation: Consigliere for Mike Cheeseman Builders Coaching Position: Offensive Coordinator Coaching Experience: 34 years experience with Marion Franklin, Licking Heights, DeSales, & Upper Arlington High School & Miami University Ohio; 15 years overall with Columbus Crusaders (Varsity Head Coach 1999-2008) Playing Experience: Upper Arlington High School; Miami University Ohio Life Verse: Proverbs 24:11, “Deliver those who are being taken away to the death; and those who are staggering to the slaughter, oh hold them back.” COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 13 SUPPORT STAFF RICK BARLOW EQUIPMENT STAFF Occupation: Senior Systems Programmer at Nationwide Family: wife, Mindy; four sons, Josh, Ben (Coach Barlow), Stephen, & Jonnie; one daughter, Annie; three daughters-in-law & one son-in-law, four grandchildren Crusader Years: 19 Years (Crusader Dad & Volunteer) Life Verse: 1 Peter 4:10, “Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.” MICHAEL MEDAS EQUIPMENT STAFF Occupation: Maintenance Manager at The Wallick Company Family: wife, Pamela; two sons, Michael & Jacob Crusader Years: Three (Youth Flag & Youth Tackle Coach, Equipment Staff) Life Verse: Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the Lord and turn away from evil.” LAURA WEBB TEAM NURSE Occupation: R.N. at St. Ann’s Hospital Family: Aunt (Amita) to two nephews and one niece, Ethan, Micah, & Stella Crusader Years: Three Life Verse: Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the Lord and turn away from evil.” COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 14 HONOR JESUS ALEX MELFE #32 !"#$%&#"'#%(%)*+,%*%-.,*/%0,123.%4,*.55% HAVE A GREAT SENIOR SEASON! % % % % % % % % % % % % % % % % % WE ARE PROUD OF YOU! 6,%*.,%7.389%3:%4385! Mom & Dad, Grandpa & Grandma Melfe, Grandpa & Grandma Cotter, "#$!%&'!(%')!*+%&',%!%&'!*+%&'$%!"-./-)!*+%&',%!%&'!*+%&'$%!0#11-+)!"-./-! 2%$3.4)!5#6-!2%$3.4)!71%889!2%$3.4)!%&'!0#11-+!2%$3.4! Melfe family, Lowe family, Staggs family, & Cotter family KEEP HONORING Jesus. Grace Polaris Church is proud to support the Columbus Crusaders in their pursuit of honoring Jesus Christ by guiding young men and women to biblical maturity. Grace exists to honor God by multiplying devoted followers of Jesus through worship, community, training, and witness. If you don’t already have a church home, join us at one of our Sunday worship services. Come enjoy a broad spectrum of musical worship, dynamic programs for kids and students, and an encouraging message from the Bible. 8:30 AM CLASSIC WORSHIP 10:00 AM ECLECTIC WORSHIP 11:30 AM MODERN WORSHIP Visit GracePolaris.org to learn more about events, groups, and ministries. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for encouraging posts throughout the week. 8 2 2 5 WORT HIN GTO N GA LE NA R OA D , W E ST E RV I LLE , O H I O 43081 Grace Ad - Columbus Crusaders Media Guide - 2016-08-26.indd 1 COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 15 8/26/16 12:01 PM COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 16 2015 notable stats passing Receiving Nehemiah Bowie #10 254 yards 30 for 72 (41.67%) 2 TDs TERRY GEIGER JR. #4 20 catches for 282 yards 2 TDs, 0 fumbles TIM TRIPLETT #9 defense 361 yards 31 for 64 (48.44 %) 2 TDs MICAH BOWIE #23 27 tackles 3 INTs rushing TERRY GEIGER JR. #4 26 tackles 1 forced fumble 3 INTs ALEX MELFE #32 105 carries 663 yards 11 TDs JEREMIAH WOOTEN #28 70 carries 447 yards 6 TDs COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 17 ALEX MELFE #32 125 tackles 3 forced fumbles THE 2016 OUTLOOK: 20th season LOOKS TO BE MEMORABLE Contributed by Doug Bean Editor/Writer for SportsXchange The Columbus Crusaders celebrate 20 years of football in 2016 and the season promises to be an exciting one. With experienced upperclassmen returning on offense and defense and a schedule that includes six home games, optimism abounds among the coaches and players. The Crusaders believe they have a realistic chance to finish above .500 for the first time since the 2010 team compiled an 8-2 record. Coach Ben Barlow has been looking forward to this season after a young team went 4-6 in 2015-- not only because of the talent on the field but the commitment the athletes showed in the offseason training program and during preseason camp leading up to the opener against the Noblesville Lions on August 27 at Otterbein University’s Memorial Stadium. Barlow, who begins his sixth year as head coach with a 20-31-1 record, has seen a camaraderie and work ethic from the players that usually signals success. “We had 20 guys commit hard to the offseason training program and worked together both in weightlifting and in conditioning and then in the captains’ practices over the summer,” he said. “They really like each other -- and it showed in our scrimmages. We have a group of juniors and seniors who committed themselves to prepare for the season differently than they did before. They’re in better shape coming in and they’re stronger.” Twelve of the 32 players on the roster are seniors. And most of them were full-or part-time starters. Along with six juniors who have seen playing time and six sophomores, several of whom were thrust into starting roles last season because of injuries, there is no shortage of experience. “It’s the first group of seniors in the last couple of years that have really believed that they could win,” Barlow said. “That seems really silly to say because guys always want to win. But guys are pretty honest with themselves, and they don’t say they will win unless they believe it. These guys believe they can win because they’ve prepared ahead of time. They’re physically talented as well as having a great spirit.” The senior class includes 6-foot-3, 235-pound Alex Melfe, a standout four-year starter who is moving from middle linebacker to a hybrid flex linebacker-defensive end position this year to utilize his strength and speed to disrupt opposing offenses at the line of scrimmage. Melfe led the Crusaders last year with more than 100 tackles and three forced fumbles. “Teams will see anything from a three-, four- or five-man front from us depending on what I call for or the look the offense gives us,” Barlow said. “It pretty much keeps us free to put Alex wherever I want him on the field at any given time. Guys just can’t block him. And he just understands how the defense works.” Up front on defense, the leaders will be seniors Chase Thompson (6-6, 270), Elijah Bland (6-2, 222) and Cole Kirby (6-0, 260). The defensive backfield starters are together again for the third straight year. Seniors Terry Geiger (5-9, 187) and Nehemiah Bowie (6-2, 185) and junior Micah Bowie (6-0, 175) are all returning. Geiger and Micah Bowie each had three interceptions in 2015. “They’re good athletes but have even better reaction than they are athletic,” Barlow said. “And they love playing together.” Handling the linebacker spots in the Crusaders’ new base defense will be Melfe, sophomore Jeremiah Wooten (5-11, 190), senior Jared Bruce (6-2, 185), junior Sam Chrysler (5-10, 160) and senior Willie Dotson (5-8, 210). Also in the mix for playing time are freshmen Pasha Beadle (5-8, 185) and Blaise Rapp (5-10, 215). Offensively, four players with starting experience return to give the Crusaders more stability up front this season. Thompson and sophomore Andrew Harris (6-1, 241) will likely begin the year as the tackles, Bland and Kirby as the guards and sophomore Ben Vucelich (6-2, 270) at center. “We lose our center, Colin Swisher, who was just a huge piece -- just a rock-steady guy in the middle,” Barlow said. “We know we have a couple of really good linemen in Chase and Cole and we have our two sophomores who started a number of games as freshmen last year who are back and have grown up.” COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 18 The Crusaders have the luxury of two game-ready quarterbacks. Junior Tim Triplett (6-4, 195) started behind center last year before he sustained a season-ending injury. His replacement, Nehemiah Bowie, took over for the last half of the 2015 season. The plan is to utilize the unique skill sets of both players this year. “We’ve had a pretty good competition going at quarterback,” Barlow said. “Tim’s throwing the ball real well. Nehemiah brings some elusiveness to the quarterback position. Each of them have their strengths and their knowledge of the offense is phenomenal.” At running back, Melfe and Wooten were two of the team’s the primary ball carriers last year, combining for more than 1,000 yards rushing. Backing them up will be Rapp, a first-year varsity player. “We return two really, really good tailbacks in Alex and Jeremiah,” Barlow said. “We’ve got some two-back packages that we’re working on.” Bruce, Chrysler, and junior Nate Warrick (5-10, 153) will rotate at the H-back position. The slot receivers will include Geiger, senior Matt Dinning (5-8, 140), junior Marcellas McLellan (5-7, 138) and senior Jayshone Garland (5-7, 140), and the wideout spots will be handled primarily by senior Elias Markley (5-10, 145) and junior Matthias Bean (6-2, 173). “I want to spread the field, but I want to run power and to be able to throw the ball in play action,” Barlow said. “And we like to sprint out to give us a little simpler reads. “We really want our completion rate up this year and our quarterbacks have bought into that. We want to complete the short throws early to get us in second-and-short and third-and-short, and then we can take our deep shots later on.” Geiger also will serve as the main kickoff and punt returner. An elusive runner, he returned one kickoff for a touchdown last year. “Terry is so physically strong and he understands the game so well,” Barlow said. “We want to get him as many touches as we can.” With more depth on the roster this year, fewer players will be forced into action on both offense and defense and that should help keep legs fresher, particularly late in games against tougher opponents.“We have some young guys who have grown up so we don’t have to have a bunch of guys go both ways,” Barlow said. The schedule again will be challenging. After opening against teams from Indiana the first two weeks, the Crusaders face three straight OHSAA opponents -- at Coshocton, Whetstone at Otterbein and at Hannibal River, a Division VI playoff qualifier in 2015. October opens with a trip to Western Reserve Academy followed by home games against Reigning Sports Academy at Otterbein, Middletown Christian at Olentangy Orange, longtime Crusader opponent Linsly (W.Va.) at Otterbein and the finale at Kiski (Pa.) School. Such an ambitious schedule would have been difficult to imagine in 1996 when the Crusaders were born. Fast forward to 2016 and the football program has moved into a dedicated facility at Polaris Church and expanded to include elementary and middle tackle and flag football, cheerleading, rugby and basketball. “It’s neat to be a part of God’s plan and what He’s going to do because this is so much different and more than the guys who started this [program] wanted it to be or thought it would be,” Barlow said. “It’s a good reminder for us when we want things to go a certain way and they don’t necessarily go that way, it’s OK because we can still just respond to the great things God is doing even when it is something other than we expected. “A bunch of my friends were on that first team in 1996, and I joined them as a seventh-grader in1997. To really be a part and watch the way things have changed and developed... and now we’re developing second-generation coaches -- guys that came back through, me being one of them -- and guys that are coaching other places, not just our own program. “It’s really exciting to see what we’re teaching our players -- not just football-wise but how to be great men and how to teach and how to lead-- is carrying them to be successful in other places as well.” In spite of the challenges that a smaller varsity roster presents, the Crusaders have maintained their reputation of playing quality football. “At our highest, we had 75 guys on the team, and a guy off that team (Chicago Bears defensive back Harold JonesQuartey) is in the NFL,” Barlow said. “That tradition of really teaching guys to play good football has carried us. I’m proud of the fact that we teach them to play football the right way -- to be physical, to tackle well, to run great routes.” The program’s 20-year anniversary is a good time to celebrate successes and blessings on and off the field and to look toward the future. “God has graciously guided this ministry for 20 years. He has used coaches to guide young men and women toward Biblical adulthood,” Crusaders athletic director Kim Hayes said. “We are so very thankful for his guidance. To quote Francis Chan: ‘Our greatest fear should not be of failure but of succeeding at things in life that don’t really matter.’” COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 19 2016 VARSITY SCHEDULE AUG 27 NOBLESVILLE LIONS SEPT 3 OSCEOLA GRACE EAGLES 9 AT COSHOCTON 16 WHETSTONE 23 AT HANNIBAL RIVER OCT1 7 WESTERN RESERVE GROVE CITY REIGNING THUNDER AT (HOMECOMING) 14 MIDDLETOWN CHRISTIAN 22 THE LINSLY SCHOOL (SENIOR NIGHT) 29 AT THE KISKI SCHOOL COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 20 VARSITY crusaders 2016 PlayerNumber Grade PositionHeight Weight School Dinning, Matt Garland, Jayshone Adams, Shakir Geiger, Terry McLellan, Marcellas Jackson, Christian Chrysler, Sam Triplett, Tim Bowie, Nehemiah Warrick, Nate Vargas, Nelson Bruce, Jared Bean, Matthias Markley, Elias Caldwell, Isaiah Ho, Aaron Forsythe, Shawn Bowie, Micah Holmes, Reece Rapp, Blaise Wooten, Jeremiah Melfe, Alex Dotson, Willie Earls Jr., Edward Medas, Michael LaPat, Isaac Fair, Xavier Thompson, Chase Vucelich, Ben Beadle, Pasha Forte, Isaiah Kirby, Cole Bland, Elijah Rogers, Aric VanDyke, Zac Harris, Andrew Lewis, Willie “Trey” 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 10 11 12 15 16 18 20 21 22 23 24 25 28 32 33 35 51 56 58 60 62 68 70 72 74 78 76 77 85 Sr. Sr. So. Sr. Jr. Fr. Jr. Jr. Sr. So. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Fr. Jr. Jr. Fr. Fr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Fr. So. Jr. Sr. So. Fr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Fr. So. So. WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB HB/LB QB/DB QB/DB HB/DL QB/DB HB/LB/P/K WR/DB/P/K WR/DB WR/DB QB/LB WR/DB WR/DB TB/LB TB/LB TB/LB TB/LB/DE TB/LB TB/LB OL/LB OL/DL OL/DE OL/DE OL/DL OL/LB OL/DL OL/DL OL/DE OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL WR/DB 5’8 5’7 5’11 5’9 5’7 5’3 5’10 6’4 6’2 5’10 6’0 6’2 6’2 5’10 5’11 5’7 5’7 6’0 6’1 5’10 5’11 6’3 5’8 5’6 5’9 5’9 6’2 6’6 6’2 5’8 5’10 6’0 6’2 6’3 6’1 6’1 5’6 COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 21 140 140 142 187 138 106 160 195 185 153 168 185 173 145 150 135 148 175 185 215 195 235 210 166 186 165 276 270 270 185 260 260 222 300 246 241 140 Arts and College Prep Academy Linden-McKinley High School Gahanna Lincoln High School Homeschool Homeschool Homeschool Shekinah Christian Academy Homeschool Homeschool High Street Christian Academy Linden-McKinley High School Homeschool Homeschool Homeschool Briggs High School Gahanna Lincoln High School Briggs High School Homeschool Homeschool Westland High School Tree of Life Christian Academy Homeschool Westerville Central High School Focus North High School Homeschool Homeschool Gahanna Lincoln High School Westerville North High School Homeschool Homeschool Life Skills Center High School Delaware Christian High School Patriot Preparatory Academy Linden-McKinley High School Homeschool Homeschool Linden-McKinley High School VARSITY cheerleaders 2016 CHEER SQUAD Front: Alisa Giammarco Middle Row (L to R): Moriah South & Meg Kown Back Row (L to R): Coach Megan, Jada Elick, Rachel Lomaka, Rachel Sam, & Coach Christy Not pictured: Katie Gibson COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 22 MEGAN DWYER CHEER STAFF Occupation: Assistant to the Director at Grace Early Childhood Center Family: Aunt to one niece and one nephew, Sophie & Sam Barlow Coaching Experience: Eight years overall with Columbus Crusaders Life Verse: 2 Corinthians 3:12 (AMP), “Since we have such [glorious] hope (such joyful and confident expectation), we speak very freely and openly and fearlessly.” CHRISTY KOWN Occupation: Homemaker Family: husband, Jay; two children, Brooks & Meg Coaching Experience: Four Years with Columbus Crusaders Life Verse: Galatians 2:20, “For I have been crucified with Christ, and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave Himself for me.” COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 23 COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 24 COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 25 SENIOR PROFILES Matt Dinning 5’8 - 140 - WR/DB Arts and College Preparatory Academy 1 Crusader Years: Two Other Interests: Music, eating, & sleeping Life Verse: 1 Peter 5:7, “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” Crusader Testimony: “For me, being a Crusader has meant battling with my brothers. I have learned how to push myself to be better in every area of my life. God has been re-introduced to me because of the Crusaders.” TERRY GEIGER 5’9 - 187 - WR/DB HOMESCHOOL 4 Crusader Years: Three Other Interests: Basketball, hanging out with friends, going to church, helping kids learn more about sports, & playing video games Life Verse: Psalm 23:4, “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil , for You are with me.” Crusader Testimony: “As I reflect on my time as a Crusader, it all means even more as I come my last year as a Crusader. Since I have been here, I have made so many brotherly connections with people like Micah, Nehe, Alex, Tim, and on and on. I have learned what it means to be a man of Christ through my three years, and it has all shown me what Jesus has done for me. God has blessed me with great coaches and great friendships. I am thankful for the athletic ability He has given me. For me, the Crusaders are another family always.” COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 26 SENIOR PROFILES Nehemiah bowie 6’2 - 185 - QB/WR/DB HOMESCHOOL 10 Crusader Years: Four Other Interests: Basketball, music, & CrossFit Life Verse: Proverbs 23:26, “My son, give me your heart. Let thine eyes observe my ways.” Crusader Testimony: “Looking back at my Crusader career, I have really enjoyed the people in this organization, from coaches to administrators, to volunteers, to youth players. Throughout the entire program, you can feel something special... the Spirit of God. I have learned that even when you have been beaten up, it’s never a reason to give up. The Crusaders have blessed me by helping me grow as a football player, a leader and a person as well.” ELIAS MARKLEY 5’10 - 145 - WR/DB HOMESCHOOL 18 Crusader Years: Four Other Interests: Racing, NASCAR, friends, & four-wheelers Life Verse: Colossians 3:23, “Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men.” Crusader Testimony: “It is hard to believe that it is my senior year already! I have so many memories from the past four years, like all the times with my teammates in the locker room and on the field. I have enjoyed and benefited from the coaches as they have shared their stories and wisdom with me. They have also shown me how to be a man of C.H.R.I.S.T. and to grow spiritually, and they have pushed me to be the best football player I can be. I am so thankful for the opportunity to play for the Crusaders.” COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 27 SENIOR PROFILES ALEX MELFE 6’3 - 235 - TB/LB/DE HOMESCHOOL 32 Crusader Years: Eight Years Other Interests: Working out, fishing, friends & family Life Verse: Romans 12:1-2, ““Therefore, I urge you brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then, you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is, His good pleasing and perfect will.” Crusader Testimony: “Being a Crusader has had a huge impact on my life! It has taught me to strive toward excellence in every aspect of my life. I am so thankful that God has used the Crusader ministry to surround me with Godly men of Christ that I can look up to.” CHASE THOMPSON 6’6 - 270 - OL/DE WESTERVILLE NORTH HIGH SCHOOL 60 Crusader Years: Five Other Interests: Rugby, writing, & reading Life Verse: Jeremiah 29:11, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘Plans to prosper you and not harm you, to give you a hope and a future.’” Crusader Testimony: “Being a Crusader has allowed me to develop bonds with other men of Christ that I probably would not have otherwise met. I have brothers I can rely on and trust. Over five years, I have learned so much Biblically and athletically that I never would have anywhere else. The Crusaders have laid a foundation for me to be a true man of Christ for the rest of my life.” COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 28 SENIOR PROFILES ISAIAH FORTE 5’10 - 260 - OL/DL Life skills center HIGH SCHOOL 70 Crusader Years: First Year Other Interests: Basketball, swimming, & rap Life Verse: Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” COLE KIRBY 6’0 - 260 - OL/DL DELAWARE CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL 72 Crusader Years: Four Other Interests: Hunting, fishing, hanging out with friends, & playing Xbox Life Verse: Deuteronomy 31:6, “Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you. He will never leave you nor forsake you.” Crusader Testimony: “Being a Crusader has helped me become a better man of Christ and has taught me how to carry out a promise as a man. I have learned how to grow in Christ and have become a better man. God has taught me how to grow closer to Him and how to live as a man of God.” JADA ELICK HOMESCHOOL Crusader Years: First Year Other Interests: Volleyball & adventuring Life Verse: Proverbs 31:30, “Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised.” Crusader Testimony: “It has been an awesome experience to be a Crusader cheerleader, bonding with the other girls over something we all love. I am learning so much about dedication and hard work, and the Bible studies we do every week have helped me really think about what Christ has done for me and is doing through me.” COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 29 2016 M.S. SCHEDULE AUG 27 ANOTHER LEVEL DISCIPLES SEPT3 10 17 22 29 AT GYMA STALLIONS 7TH GRADE CINCINNATI RED RAIDERS DAYTON JETS LOGAN 7TH GRADE GROVE CITY REIGNING THUNDER OCT 8 13 ANOTHER LEVEL LIONS FINLAND MIDDLE SCHOOL COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 30 middle school CRUSADERS PLAYERNUMBER Ortega, Caleb 1 Weigand,Hunter 3 Melfe, Mitchell 7 Green, Mazen 16 South, Jack 20 Johnson, Nyal 28 Henwood, Jake 32 Heissner, Chase 33 LaPat, Jonathan 38 Ross, Brandon 45 Medas, Jacob 55 LaPat, Benjamin 62 Vucelich, Josh 65 Valentine, Gregg 72 Lassiter, Zach 73 Fourman, Chase 75 Dent, Julian 77 Hoheisel,Zach 79 Pacheco, David 84 Kinlin, Sean 88 Matthews, Andrew 89 COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 31 Middle school STAFF CHAD SOUTH HEAD COACH Occupation: Sales with CenturyLink Family: wife, Mindy children Moriah, Jack, Arielle, & Josiah Coaching Experience: 4 years with Columbus Crusaders Life Verse: Psalm 119:11, “I have hidden Your Word in my heart that I might not sin against You.” ASSISTANT COACHES CRAIG BROWN ROBERT GARRETT RAHN CORLEW EH ORTEGA MIDDLE SCHOOL COMMISSIONER: DON HEASLEY COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 32 David Schaefer Custom Design Remodeling and Construction Services Pursuing Excellence Since 2000 www.finishlinebuilding.com Go Crusaders! COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 33 YOUTH TACKLE SCHEDULE SEPT3 9:00AM 11:00AM RED V. BLACK BLUE V. WHITE 10 9:00AM BLACK V. BLUE WHITE V. RED 17 9:00AM RED V. BLUE WHITE V. BLACK 24 9:00AM 11:00AM WHITE V. BLUE RED V. BLACK OCT1 9:00AM 11:00AM BLUE V. BLACK RED V. WHITE 11:00AM 11:00AM 8 9:00AM 11:00AM BLUE V. RED BLACK V. WHITE COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 34 black crusaders 2016 BLACK TEAM ROSTER Elijah Alt Jonathan Bauman Tyon Fountain Boston Molnar Bryan Mullins Jace Rammelsberg Isaiah Smith Mark Vucelich Coaches Michael Medas Steve Vucelich COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 35 WHITE crusaders 2016 WHITE TEAM ROSTER Dima Beadle Andre Carl Grant Fuller Nathan Lassiter Moses Murphy Isaiah Stewart Daxon Zartman Kiefer Young Coaches Zach Irwin Mark Lassiter Zac Pierce COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 36 blUE crusaders 2016 BLUE TEAM ROSTER Colin Blais Grant Conklin Braden Deere Declan Hamilton Cameron Matthews Jacob Nier Dylan Robertson Kyler Sam Coaches Bryan Nier Ben Sam COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 37 RED crusaders 2016 RED TEAM ROSTER Joshua Carrel Jackson DeBolt Hayden Garnes Noah Henwood Liam Hoffman Caleb Lewald Robbe Sutliff Justin Workman Coaches Brian Swisher Colin Swisher COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 38 Go, Jada! Special Crusader thanks to our OSUSM Staff: So proud to watch you shine for Him. Bob sweeney Love, Mom rachel egelhoff brei miller tony tahy We appreciate all you do to take care of the Crusaders! COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 39 BLUE FLAG CRUSADERS 2016 BLUE TEAM ROSTER Cameron Armstrong TannerBrua Matthew Morganski Keegan Oberbrunner Jackson Ressler Coach Kary Oberbrunner COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 40 ORANGE FLAG CRUSADERS 2016 ORANGE TEAM ROSTER Luke Hermiz Hayden Huffer Jack Nicodemus Keagan Powers Josiah South Coaches Randall Huffer Scott Vandenmark COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 41 NAVY FLAG CRUSADERS 2016 NAVY TEAM ROSTER JordanBennett Grant Crane Cole Kaiser Kai Sjoblom Jonathan Troutner Coaches Derrick Bennett Dan Troutner COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 42 NEON FLAG CRUSADERS 2016 NEON TEAM ROSTER Luke Bennett HoldenBlais Jaxson Mark Cooper McGlothlin BradenMiller Dominic Ortega Coach Jesse Mark COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 43 Jenny R. Maple, DDS, MS - Orthodontic Specialist New Albany - 775-1000 * Complimentary Consultations * Impressionless Scanning www.straightsmile.com Cheering on the Crusaders and the Medas brothers! Michael #51 Jacob #55 Love, Uncle Dennis & Aunt Rhonda COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 44 Team Vucelich! Grandma, Pap, Aunt Karie, & Uncle Dale Honor Jesus! Cheering on Special Crusader thanks to: Bill & Donna Cochran Gordan & Debbie Moskal We appreciate your support of Crusader athletes! COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 45 Go, Meg! Serve in the Spirit. Love, Nanny CRUSADERS ON THE COURT. RETURNING JANUARY 2017 BOYS AND GIRLS BASKETBALL AND GIRLS CHEERLEADING GRADES K-6 “EARLY BIRD” REGISTRATION STARTS in NOVEMBER! QUESTIONS? CALL 614-985-4954. COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 46 CRUSADERS in the NFL: Harold jones-quartey Head coach Ben Barlow has a favorite story he likes to tell about Harold Jones-Quartey: In 2009, when he was a junior in high school and a second-year Crusader, Harold’s ride to a Thursday-night practice canceled at the last minute. Immediately, Harold boarded the closest COTA bus in downtown Columbus, intent to make his way to the Crusader practice fields on the northeast side of the city. The nearest bus stop to the practice facility was a little over three miles away from the fields, so when he reached the bus stop, Harold ran the last few miles to practice, wearing his school uniform and carrying his practice gear on his back, in 90-degree summer heat. He made it to only the last few minutes of practice, but Harold’s efforts that day demonstrate much about his work-ethic and character and his passion to give his all for God’s glory. Since his 2010 graduation from the Crusader program, Harold has exchanged his Crusader jersey twice as a University of Findlay Oiler and, now, as a Chicago Bears, the first Crusader to reach the National Football League. Harold came to the Crusaders as a sophomore in high school, through some challenging personal circumstances. “When I was in tenth grade, my step-dad and mom got a divorce.” His family was uprooted from their home in Westerville and forced to resettle in Columbus Public School District, where Harold started attending Horizon Science Academy. “My mom didn’t care about football so she sent me to Horizon. But I lived for football, so I had to find a way to play. My athletic director [at Horizon] showed me the Crusaders’ website, and I immediately caught a bus to meet with Mrs. [Kim] Hayes. The rest is history.” History-making, for sure. Harold was a three-year Varsity starter for the Crusaders, a three-time letter winner as an athletic wide-receiver and safety. He was voted All-Central District twice in his high school career, and is widely regarded by his Crusader coaches, as the most electric punt return-man in Crusader history. “Before he even caught the ball,” says Coach Barlow, “he was already moving forward.” Recruited after his senior season by the University of Findlay Oilers, Harold continued to bring his same excitement to the Division II college field. In four seasons, Harold played 43 games. He totaled 241 tackles, nine tackles for loss, four interceptions, 21 passes defended, and three forced fumbles as a full-time safety. He earned All-GLIAC honors each of his last two seasons and an All-Conference selection as a senior in 2014, when he led the Oilers with 105 tackles. In the spring of 2015, Harold signed as an undrafted free-agent with the Arizona Cardinals. Despite performing well in pre-season play, he was released by the veteran-loaded team. This was a “blessing in disguise,” says Harold, as he was then picked up and signed to a three-year rookie contract with the Chicago Bears. During his rookie season, Harold started at safety in four games and finished with 25 tackles, one forced fumble, and one interception. “God taught me patience, “ he says, “and then He gave me opportunities to perform.” A highlight of Harold’s rookie season came from his now former teammate and veteran running back, Matt Forte. “He complimented me and told me he could see my potential as a player. That was pretty cool.” Entering the 2016 season, Harold is focused on securing his starting spot at safety and to help lead his the Bears to a winning season. His off-field motivation continues to be greater than his on-field goals: “My goal off the field is to motivate young men and women with tough circumstances to continue to push and drive towards their dreams and goals, to use their circumstances as a motivator instead of a crutch, to let them know that anything is possible as long as you are willing to work hard.” Even in his immense football successes, Harold has remained close to and grateful for all he has learned from his time as a Crusader. “The Crusaders have given me a strong support and another source of motivation to continue this journey,” he says, “ I am not only playing for myself, I am playing for and representing the ministry. I realize how many lives I can touch by playing a game that I already enjoy. So it’s a win-win, really. Now it’s just a bigger stage, a bigger opportunity to continue to touch lives.” COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 47 A CRUSADER LEGACY In the Crusader Barracks, you will find our framed #8 jersey. Since 2006, the #8 jersey has been retired in honor and memory of Jered Pyles, a very special player in the Crusader family. In May of 2006, Jered was preparing for his senior season with the Crusaders when the Lord called him home in a drowning accident. Hours before the tragedy, Jered answered a final exam question for a Bible class at Worthington Christian High School with the following words: I would say that Galatians is my favorite [book of the Bible]. Galatians is such an encouraging book for my own walk with God. I know I’m in Christ, and when I die, I will be with Him. I know this because I have faith and believe that what God has said is what is true and right.When we accept Christ as our Savior, we are no longer slaves of this world; instead, we are ‘heirs’ to heaven. And this is very encouraging to me. Romans 8:28 says, “And we know in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” God can use anything, even sorrow, to bring about victory. Since the tragic loss of Jered, Crusaders past and present have had countless opportunities to share the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ by sharing the story of Jered’s faith. Jered’s testimony, both from his words and from the way he lived his life, continue to leave a legacy for many Crusader players, fans, and family who have followed, even ten years after God called Jered home. We now honor Jered’s memory through Jered’s Hope, a memorial fund that is used to support Crusader players who need help with their fees and to provide every Crusader player who does not own a personal Bible with a Bible to keep. Isaiah 46:11 also says, “What I have said, that will I bring about; what I have planned, that will I do.” This verse reminds us of God’s Sovereignty in every aspect of timing. Today, you are reading this media guide. Perhaps you have not yet received Christ as your Savior. Today, you are reminded, through Jered’s story, that we can be taken when we least expect it. We pray that you are ready, as Jered was ready. If you have not accepted Christ, any Crusader staff member or coach would be happy to talk with you and pray with you about that decision. Now is the perfect time to ask Jesus Christ to forgive your sins; to ask Him to come into your life and be your Lord, Master, and Savior; and to thank Him for dying on the cross to set you free from your sins. You can read through Scripture in our “Never Forget” section to find out more about the salvation we receive through Christ. We pray that the legacy of the Crusader ministry, as was Jered Pyle’s legacy, points others to Jesus Christ for His honor and glory and for the salvation of all who hear our message and Jered’s story. Ten years later, we still remember Jered and praise God for the way he turns tragedy into triumph and uses all things for His glory. Honor Jesus! COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 48 Never Forget We are all sinners. “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23 Our sin causes physical and spiritual death. “For the wages of sin is death.” Romans 6:23 In order for God to allow us into heaven, our sin has to be removed. Jesus Christ did this on through His death on the cross and His resurrection, serving as a substitute for those who accept Him as their personal Savior. “But God demonstrates His own love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8 The transgression was Adam’s sin of disobedience; the act of righteousness was Christ’s death on the cross as the only payment for sin. “Just as one trespass resulted in condemnation for all people, so also one righteous act resulted in justification and life for all people.” Romans 5:18 Salvation is the result of believing in our hearts that Jesus is God, our Savior, and Lord of our lives. We confirm that we trust in and serve Him when we are willing to act on our belief. “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; for with his heart a man believes, resulting in righteousness, and with his mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation.” Romans 10:9-10 We receive Jesus Christ by trusting in Him for salvation. We need to have a specific time in our lives when we acknowledge His call and accept His offer. “But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to be called children of God, even to those who believe in His name.” John 1:12 Jesus’ invitation is for all to come to Him. When we do, we rest from trying to live a ‘good’ life on our own effort, which we cannot do. “Come to me, all who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28 After trusting Christ as Savior, God, through the Holy Spirit, comes to live in us. “You were included in Christ when you heard the message of Truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in Him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit.” Ephesians 1:13 Our actions should be guided by knowing God and listening to His Holy Spirit in us. We should do nothing to sadden the Holy Spirit. “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God...” 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 We are saved only through God’s grace and the faith He gives us; it is not a result of any good things we do! Our salvation is only from Christ’s work on our behalf. “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faithand this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God...” Ephesians 2:8-9 We are created to do good things by the power of Christ and the Holy Spirit in and through us. God has a plan for our lives, which involves living for Him. “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians 2:10 To accept the gift of God through Christ, we express our trust through prayer: “Lord God, I know that I am a sinner. I believe that Jesus died for my sins and rose again to offer eternal life. I ask that You, Jesus, would be Lord of my life. Thank you, Jesus!” COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 49 Training facility 6,000-SQUARE-FOOT FACILITY STATE-OF-THE ART WEIGHT ROOM 9-FOOT ROGUE MONSTER RIG 6 SQUAT AND BENCH STATIONS 12 ‘THE ROGUE BAR’ OLYMPIC BARS FREE WEIGHTS AND PLATES 2 ROGUE ABRAM GHD 2.0 MACHINES 2 concept two rowers TRAINING ROOM AND LOCKER ROOM WITH SHOWERS COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 50 Crusader fight song Sung to the tune of ‘On Wisconsin’ On, Crusaders! On, Crusaders! Blast right through that line! Drive the ball on down the field; We’ll score for sure this time! Fight! Fight! Fight! On, Crusaders! On, Crusaders! Compete to bring Him fame. Fight on to victory in Jesus’ name! On, Crusaders! On, Crusaders! Stand up proud and sing! Let all we do and all we say Bring glory to our King! Crusader hymn alma mater Sung to the tune of ‘Carmen Ohio’ Come Crusaders now to sing; Praise to Jesus Christ, our King! Fellowship on earth is sweet, But heaven’s wonders can’t be beat! “Well done,” from Him we long to hear. Love God and those He says are dear. Tell the world that Jesus saves! His gift of life for all our days! On, Crusaders! On, Crusaders! Spread His righteous claim! Fight on to victory in Jesus’ name! COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 51 CRUSADER STAFF DIRECTORY JEFF AND KIM HAYES DIRECTORS [email protected] [email protected] erin barlow ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT kim vucelich [email protected] support staff coordinator [email protected] CONTACTS BY SPORT: CONTACTS FOR SUMMER CAMPS: Varsity Football or Football Off-Season Training Ben Barlow [email protected] Summer Speed Camp (Grades 3-8) EH Ortega [email protected] Middle School Football Chad South [email protected] Summer CHEER Camp (Grades K-6) Megan Dwyer [email protected] Youth Tackle Football or Advanced Flag Football Kim Hayes [email protected] CRUSADER BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Ben Barlow Mike Cheeseman Brad Fourman Don Heasley Jeff Hayes Kim Hayes Victor Melfe Chad South Mike Stanley Steve Vucelich Varsity Cheerleading Megan Dwyer [email protected] Youth Basketball or Summer Flag Cheerleading Christy Kown [email protected] Winter Youth Basketball (Grades K-6) Kim Hayes [email protected] Rugby Mike Stanley [email protected] Summer Flag Football Brad Fourman [email protected] WANT TO KNOW MORE? www.columbuscrusaders.org 614-985-4954 FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM AND TWITTER @CBUSCRUSADERS AND FACEBOOK @COLUMBUS CRUSADERS YOUTH SPORTS COLUMBUS CRUSADERS MEDIA GUIDE 2016 52