Last fall, FC Grace Tanzania held a conference in the capital city, Dodoma. One of the coaches who attended is the managing director of a large investment company in Tanzania, and reached out to Terry Lyambilo, our lead instructor asking if we could hold a paid-for conference for a group of 55 coaches near the Malawi border.
The spiritual transformation was perhaps the most profound aspect of the conference with 16 coaches accepting Christ. Several coaches shared their struggles and deeply ingrained reliance on witchcraft, cultural practices and superstitions in an effort to win matches. During the conference, they were taught that true victory and success come from a relationship with Christ, not through rituals or superstitions. It became clear that breaking these strongholds required not just intellectual understanding, but a deep emotional and spiritual renewal. Through heartfelt discussions, powerful testimonies, and prayer, coaches were encouraged to embrace the truth of the Gospel.
Several shared how they felt liberated from the fear and insecurity that had previously driven them to rely on witchcraft. One coach, Edger Haule, shared openly saying, “I used to carry amulets and perform certain rituals before each game, believing that they would bring us success but after hearing the message of Christ and experiencing His love, I now know that there is no magic or charm greater than the power of God. It is through His love and grace that we find true success.”
For many coaches, this was not just a change in belief, but a transformation in the way they would approach both their personal lives and their role as mentors to their players. They learned to view coaching not as a job, but as a calling—a way to serve others and reflect Christ’s love. The testimony of another coach who had struggled with anger and bitterness after many years of using witchcraft, was especially powerful. “I used to be consumed by anger when things didn’t go the way I wanted on the field. I believed that using witchcraft would give me control over the game, but after accepting Christ, I’ve learned that true peace comes from surrendering to God and trusting His plan. I’m no longer bound by fear or superstition.”
One coach shared how his outlook on life had changed, “I came to this conference hoping to learn more about coaching, but what I found was much more. I found Jesus Christ. He has changed my heart, and now I am not just a coach—I am a servant of God, coaching my players with His love and teachings.” Another coach, Jacob Haule, reflected on his journey of spiritual renewal: “I was taught to be tough and demand respect from my players, but after accepting Christ, I have learned that love is the key to leadership. I no longer see my players as just athletes—I see them as individuals who need love, guidance, and spiritual mentorship.” These testimonies serve as a testament to the power of the Gospel and how it can impact even those who are in positions of leadership in sports." The 16 coaches who accepted Christ are now equipped to share the message of Jesus with their teams, impacting their communities for the Kingdom of God.
We give God all the praise and glory for what He has done in Southern Tanzania.
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