First Runners Up

 By Natalia Nosker

A Saturday morning begins with a rare sight—juniors and seniors practically rising with the sun to attend a riveting game of captain Ball. 

The CAP Games Penang tournament is a tradition hosted by Dalat. Six teams of students from different schools gather to participate in a captain ball event, one of many social and Gospel outreach programs run by Scripture Union. 

Scripture Union is a Christian Organization that aims to reach youth with the Good News of Jesus through working with churches and organizing Bible study opportunities, children ministries, youth ministries, and sports ministries. 

The teams slowly pour into the gym, new faces everywhere and excitement building for the games ahead. Bundles of neon yellow are passed around as the players receive their captain ball T-shirts—some say this year's color is better than last year’s neon orange, but that is up for debate.

Everyone gathers as a Scripture Union staff member speaks into the mic to deliver the introductory information and a very well-presented Gospel message. 

Sabrina Boyd (12), a member of Dalat Team Two, says, “If I had heard this before I became a believer, it would definitely have made me question the way I view my life.” 

After a prayer, the teams split to begin the competition. The next few hours are filled with neck-and-neck games, but only the best will win a medal. 

Several hours of running and throwing later, the games come to an end with Dalat Teams One and Two coming out on top. Dalat Team One, the team of Seniors and PB, receive silver medals. Written on the front is not a humbling ‘2nd place’, but an encouraging, ‘1st Runner Up.’

“And first place goes to…Dalat Team Two,” resulting in the Juniors taking gold. 

Speaking on behalf of Dalat Team One, Aidan Boyd (11) says, “Easy dubs.” Along with this reward, the Juniors receive an opportunity to compete in an upcoming captain ball tournament in Ipoh. Good luck, Juniors, if you accept the challenge! 

The games end with bonding among strangers from different schools across the island. Thank you to Scripture Union and Dalat for putting on an event that not only resulted in a day of fun for Penang youth but also an opportunity for people to accept an eternity with Christ.