In efforts to teach sport fundamentals and provide young athletes with a non-competitive Christian atmosphere, Peoples Church founded TEAM ministries.

Matthew Markarian, boys’ head soccer coach and the current head of TEAM, has led the program with his wife, Vanessa, for five years.

“Our mission statement is athletics with a purpose,” Markarian said. “We strive to create a Christian environment for kids to play sports. We try to limit the negative pressures that usually accompany sports.”

Several students on campus work for the ministry by refereeing games or running the information booths.

Junior Kally Batesole works a station on the Alluvial field, which provides the coaches with devotions and a place for kids to say their Bible verses.

?I love working for TEAM ministries because the kids are awesome,” Batesole said. “It?s not hard like a real job, it?s fun, because I love Matt and Vanessa and I get to hang out with my friends. Some days are harder because they are busy, but I enjoy doing the office work.?

Other students referee the games and help coach. Vincent Cabias, ?09, has been working for TEAM ministries for two years.

?I like working for the Markarians because Vanessa?s really nice and Matt?s hilarious,? Cabias said. ?The pay is also really good and the work isn?t that hard.?

Some workers do not attend the school. Jenna Teter, ’09, is currently home schooled and takes classes at California State University, Fresno. This is her third year working for TEAM.

“At first, it was intimidating to be the only one that didn’t go to FC,” Teter said. “I didn?t know anyone and I felt out of the loop. It got better once I got to know the other workers. It is a good opportunity to meet new people.”

Though it is not her first job choice, Teter enjoys the pay and schedule.

“It’s good pay for one day a week and it is easy to fit in my schedule,” Teter said. “Sometimes the administration gets boring and its hard waking up early on Saturday, but it’s better then nothing.”

Students interested in the job are encouraged to apply.

“We always have people leave or spots that need to be filled,” Markarian said. “Students simply need to apply at the office.”

The soccer season ended in Oct. and workers will take a break until basketball starts in mid January.