Anthony

I believe that God is at work in my community. I just don't know where He is at work due to the fact that I spend to much time in an office and not out looking for what God is already doing and jumping on board. Photography was "my idea" to use for Kingdom work. "Light" "Exposure"... get it. OK, maybe it's more of a God idea than mine because He placed me with a group of folks who love football... love to play... love to get hurt... Well, maybe not the hurt part, however, God placed me there. I'm sure of it. I've been with the Rams shooting pics for 3 years now and I've enjoyed the relationships I've been given to share. This year, for the very first time, I met Anthony. Anthony has a great story. He's never played football before in his life. He just thought he would walk on and try this sport out and somehow made it on the team. To be honest, I thought he was a seasoned pro. (this might tell you how much or little I know about the game). Anthony brought an enthusiasm to the Rams family. I was not surprised when I found out he was a follower of the Way. He gave every game his all and kept a smile too. Every play, I watched him move with determination and effort that rivaled his younger counter parts. At the seasons end awards celebration, He was given the honor of "Rookie of the Year" much deserved and humbly received. I'm glad to know him. He's a good husband, a wonderful new dad and a brother to find encouragement in this shadow land. peace. johno~

Coach

What does it take to be a great coach? I know we look at the greats who have led major teams, both professional and college, to record breaking success. However, there are those who coached the teams who who have never made a story in Sports Illustrated or been interviewed by ESPN, but have been forefront leaders in small communities around the world. It is the coach that lives in a small town who is responsible for the young men and women who have boosted the fame of those we read about or see on TV. Coach Preston it that kind of coach and his success as a coach has left a trail of business men, construction workers, caretakers and a list of others who have learned that there is no "I" in the word "TEAM." He is a man of heart. He has poured his heart out so much it has now left him with several uncertain moments in the emergency room. Yet, his determination, his heart, presses on. This is what makes a coach. One who can teach, listen, discipline, hope, win, lose, share, receive, dream and love. He takes seriously this thing called "Family." He is a family man. Not to many people can do that. Not to many people have what it takes to be a family man. I heard him say once, "I love the song, 'Amazing Grace.' It's amazing how God just opens his blessings on us." It was after a practice on Sunday and the clouds broke and the sun was bright. God has placed this man in the lives of many. Many would choose to serve themselves... Paul Preston chose to become a coach. peace johno~

Frank Smith #1

I haven't known Frank for that long. I started taking photos for the rams almost 3 years ago and I only came to really know Frank last year. Caleb, my son is a big fan of "Frank #1"... One time I took my family to the ice cream store for a treat and guess who walked in? Frank Smith, #1. It was funny to watch my kids look at this "superstar" giggle and timidly walk up to say hi. His response was great. He made the kids feel like they were just as important. before we left for home, Frank #1 Smith, ran out to his truck and grabbed an old football, signed it and gave it to Caleb as a gift. This act put Caleb on cloud 10. The day I took this photo, once again, Frank #1 Smith, took another step closer to the Caleb Thomas Hall of Fame, by giving Caleb his old football helmet. It almost brings Caleb to the ground when he puts it on, but he loves every bit of it. It's great to know that guys like Frank exist. Men who are not afraid to be hero’s; men who don't forget to notice the “little” ones who are watching and take time to encourage them. The number Frank wears on his team jersey is not what makes him #1... It's his heart. peace. johno~