Surge Soccer has long been a beacon of hope, using the world’s most popular sport as a tool for outreach, development, and transformation. In recent years, one of our most impactful ventures has been in the heart of West Africa—Liberia. What began as a single trip to this post-conflict nation has blossomed into a full-scale operation, serving as a hub for our efforts across the continent. The journey of Surge Soccer in Liberia is a testament to the power of faith, perseverance, and the universal language of soccer.
Our introduction to Liberia was a leap of faith. In 2022, my colleague Allen Lotz and I made a “one-time trip” to this nation, not fully knowing what to expect. As with many of our missions, we were guided by prayer and a deep-seated belief in God’s plan. The trip was not without challenges—flight cancellations delayed our arrival by three days, and we found ourselves in a land of unfamiliar faces. Yet, from the moment we touched down, it was clear that God had paved the way for something extraordinary. We were greeted warmly by Ollie White, Amos Gayflor, and Darius Bariolle—three individuals who would become instrumental in the growth of Surge Soccer in Liberia.
Today, what started as a tentative exploration has grown into a permanent base of operations that serves as a launching pad for our work throughout Africa. Liberia is now home to a dedicated team of seven Americans and ten Liberians who are united in their mission to bring about positive change through soccer. Together, we are addressing the needs of this nation in various critical areas: evangelism, discipleship, leadership training, educational development, and trauma relief.
Leadership training is one of our key focuses in Liberia. We are committed to raising up the next generation of sports ministers who can use soccer as a platform to share the gospel and foster community development. Our programs provide intensive training for both soccer coaches and schoolteachers, equipping them with the skills to not only excel in their professions but also serve as role models and mentors for the youth. In a country where over half of the population is under the age of 16, this is an urgent and crucial task.
Education is another pillar of our work in Liberia. The need here is immense—approximately 2,000 teachers in the country are unable to read. Through our initiatives, we are working to change this, using soccer as a tool to engage and motivate both students and educators. We have launched a school initiative, starting with 20 schools, to encourage children to stay in school, learn to read, and develop essential life skills.
Trauma relief is also a significant part of our mission in Liberia. The scars of the civil war are still fresh, with many men having served as child soldiers. Our programs offer support and healing, providing a safe space where individuals can begin to rebuild their lives and their communities.
Looking ahead, the possibilities for Surge Soccer in Liberia are boundless. With God’s guidance and the continued support of our partners, we are poised to make a lasting impact not only in Liberia but across the entire continent. Join us as we expand our reach and bring the light of Christ to those who need it most—one soccer ball at a time.