Lipscomb men's soccer alumnus Ben Page('07) has had a prolific soccer career at both Lipscomb and in the professional ranks, but the impact Ben is leaving in the world ripples far beyond the soccer community alone.
During his four-year tenor at Lipscomb, Page was known for his dedicated work-ethic and ability to build strong and influential relationships with those around him.
"I was fortunate enough to play with Ben for one season here at Lipscomb in 2007 and having him as a senior and leader during my freshman year was a wonderful blessing," said Garrett McLaughlin, associate head coach of Lipscomb men's soccer. "He had such a positive and kind personality that it was always a great time being around him. He was friends with most people on campus, from all different backgrounds and always brought others together. While he had a very laid-back attitude off the field, when he was on the field, I've never seen someone have such a relentless work ethic and desire to win. The memory of him doing extra fitness after almost every session is something I tell my players about to this day."
After graduating from Lipscomb, Page signed a professional contract to play for the Charlotte Eagles in the United Soccer League; and while he was there, The Lord grew his heart for a specific community that is often overlooked in the city of Charlotte.
Page, along with a few teammates from the Eagles, decided to start a soccer team in the community to invest in the next generation and share a message of hope that "Jesus loves you and has a plan for your life." Through this soccer team, relationships began to form, and Page and a few coaches decided to move into this community to have a greater impact in the lives of these kids and their families. This ministry became known as the Urban Eagles, and it was Page's heart to see this community be completely transformed by God's love.
"Ben has a unique gift for connecting with people," said Mitch Sanford, fellow Urban Eagles coach and director of International Tours for Missionary Athletes International. "He is genuine and people appreciate it. Whether you are a young man in the program, or the homeless guy on the corner, Ben listens and then gives you raw, honest feedback. It's how he has developed the respect of an entire neighborhood."
After serving as ministry director for the Urban Eagles for eight years, Ben and his wife Nicki co-founded I AM 24/7, that uses the vehicle of sport to disciple youth to become leaders of the next generation.
Through this ministry, there are six year-round soccer and basketball teams that provide not only instruction in sport, but tutoring, Bible study, travel experiences and intentional Leadership Development nearly every week of the year for the kids involved. The staff members also live in the community to help cultivate deep relationships that are empowering, encouraging and intentional because I AM 24/7 is more than a program, it is a family.
Through I AM 24/7, Page is able to continue his passion for sharing the love of Jesus in practical ways, and developing leaders who give back to their communities the opportunity to thrive.
"Ben's infectious personality, servant leadership, approach and commitment to the game left a mark on our program that can still be felt today," said Lipscomb men's soccer head coach Charles Morrow. "As big of an impact as Ben has had on our program, it pales in comparison to the impact on the community that he works with in Charlotte, North Carolina. I have so much respect for Ben and how he pours himself into his work."
To learn more about I AM 24/7 visit www.iam247.org. To learn more about Lipscomb Athletics Spiritual Formation please contact Chris Klotz at cpklotz@lipscomb.edu.
