INMAN, S.C. – As we close in on Thanksgiving Day and the heart of the holiday season, one area team has an event on their calendar that is circled every year.
For the past few seasons, the Chapman Panthers football program has participated in Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan’s Purse. Since 1993, approximately 188 million children across 170 countries have received a shoebox by way of Operation Christmas Child. For head coach Harry Cabaniss, it’s something that holds a special place in his heart. “When my wife and I lived in Summerville,” Cabaniss recalled. “For our first Christmas, instead of doing our own big Christmas, we filled shoeboxes (for OCC). We used to go skiing in the Boone area and Samaritan’s Purse is based there. We got involved with it in Summerville… then we came here (to Chapman) and it’s full blown, which is exciting. No matter where we are in the season, it’s going to happen that week.” Seniors Lance Holden and Ricky Montalvo have taken part in this team-wide function for four years and remember what it was like participating as freshmen. “I had heard about it through my church,” said Holden. “To be able to do something for somebody else, it made me happy. It brought joy. It really helps a team bond when they do something together, to do good together. To be part of this every year means a lot to us.” “I learned about it from my brother,” Montalvo remarked. “I think that this is a great thing to do because some kids don’t get to have Christmas and other holidays that we get to have here. We’re a family here and we enjoy doing this, giving back to people.” The players and coaches filled the boxes with items like toys and school supplies for children, with ages ranging from two years up to 14. This past Monday evening, the Panthers filled over 220 shoeboxes that will be collected and distributed soon thereafter. To partake in a unique act of service such as this has impacted everyone involved and put things in perspective. “It’s an awesome thing,” Montalvo exclaimed. “I recommend giving it a try one time, maybe with a church or group of friends. It’s very special because not too many people go around and give back to people all around the world.” “It really shows that this team is about more than just winning games,” Holden added. “It’s about something more – giving back to the community and the world. The best way I can describe this is it brings you joy to bring other people joy.” As gift giving becomes one of the main themes for this time of year, Cabaniss and the Panthers see the bigger picture – that each of the shoeboxes can make an eternal impact. “It’s really cool,” Cabaniss said. “Having the ability to go reach far places of the world and giving kids something that they may never have the possibility of hearing is awesome – the message of Jesus.” “For a lot of them, it’s the first time they will hear about Jesus. Being able to see our team help spread the message is something that means a lot to me.” Never underestimate the power of a shoebox. Chapman (8-2) will continue in the 3A playoffs with a home contest on Friday, November 12th against the Chester Cyclones. -Justin Mathis Comments are closed.
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