Pocono Lions go to the flag championship

The Pocono Lions flag football organization has been in existence since 2016. I started it with a desire to use flag football to show kids from all backgrounds how to work together as a team and how to overcome obstacles. I also wanted to give kids an opportunity to experience the Love of God by traveling as a team and growing as young men.

The motto of the Pocono Lion’s organization is to encourage young men to become great men of God. This is greater than flag football. It’s an opportunity for them to have once in a lifetime experiences together as a team. As a kid growing up in New York City, I was not given such opportunities to travel with a team and play other teams from different states. We have a desire to give our youth these experiences.

We have played in over 40 tournaments. Each one has provided an opportunity to encourage and pour into young men in different stages of their lives. The Pocono Lions has been a positive influence in the lives of our team members. In a world where there is such division, seeing these young men cross economic and sociological differences and work together in unity gives me such great hope for the future. Many have gone on to college and are using some of what they learned from their time with the Lions to impact the community around them.

This group of 15–16 year-olds is amazing. They come from many different backgrounds and play together with, not only a love for the game, but more importantly a love for each other. We are continuing to break down barriers. They have high levels of integrity as well as a spirit that is recognized by other teams and organizations.

ENCOURAGEMENT- ENCOURAGEMENT -ENCOURAGEMENT-

We stress the importance of encouraging each other to become better in life. We believe that with hard work and dedication, God will take us places that are bigger than we anticipated. I personally pray for each team member in my daily life. I believe that God will use this time to give them a sense of identity that goes beyond football. I believe that they will experience how they are each unique and loved by God.

You can help us get these young men to Orlando for the opportunity to play in 2 tournaments:

· Flag football life championships

· AFFL Youth World Championships at Disney [where will be representing Pennsylvania].

We often say that the youth are the future of our world. This is an opportunity to sow a little love and encouragement into their lives so that they know their futures are bright and that we believe in them.

A last quote from one of the Pocono Lions players last year: “Why are people doing this for us when they don’t even know us?” My response: “Because they have experienced God’s love, and they want you to know that you are also loved by God and that God sees you.”

I thank you for your prayers for us, and for your generous support of us. Your giving will bring a harvest that God will multiply and use powerfully.

May God’s Love overwhelm you today,

Dana Antal

Coach and Pastor