Athletic Center Update: Dedication on December 2nd, 2007
On Sunday December 2nd at Harvest Bible Chapel in Elgin, Illinois The Mitchell Swaback Athletic Center was dedicated to the Lord. Before the service began tours of the new 26,000 square foot facility were given. Many who toured the new facility could not believe how nice everything looked. With some 500 people in attendance the service started out with a worship song titled “Blessed be the Lord.” This was the same song that was sung at Mitch’s funeral.
Bob and Gaye Swaback spoke about Mitch and shared that the gym wasn’t built because Mitch died, it was built as we celebrate Mitch’s life, who he was and the things he did. Bob and Gaye stated they know Mitch is doing just fine up in Heaven and are 100% confident they will see him again. Two of Mitch’s best friend’s Jeff Harbeck and David Moe shared basketball stories of playing on different teams with Mitch. Ty Gooch, Pastor of Sports Ministries, talked about how intense Mitch was when he was playing basketball and how he would challenge anyone in any game. Ty made it a point to say how in one game Mitch and an opponent were really going after each other where he needed to call a time out to prevent a fight. At this point Mitch ran over to his opponent who was sitting on his bench and reach out his hand and asked for forgiveness on how he was acting. Ty said that he will always remember that moment on how Mitch displayed his Christ-like actions on the court. Nicolee Thompson, Mitch’s sister, read the words that are engraved on a bronze plaque which includes a picture of Mitch. Paul Thompson Mitch’s brother-in-law, unveiled the plaque that will be displayed in the west entrance of the new athletic center for all to past by as they enter the gym.
Dr. James MacDonald shared a few stories about Mitch, but spoke on the verse that’s written on the bronze plaque. II Timothy 4:7 “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” The last part of this verse says “to keep the faith” this was a strong reminder to all. Kent Shaw gave the prayer of dedication, followed by words of acceptance for the school by Dr. Jeff Mattner and for the church by Dr. Joseph Stowell. Following the service refreshments were served. To close out the day was the inaugural basketball game played by family and close friends of Mitch. The game ball was signed by all who played and was presented to Bob and Gaye Swaback.
This week gym classes were held in the new facility with schedule basketball games to begin as well. The Mitchell Swaback foundation is honored to be part of this facility and has committed to continue to make improvements in construction, equipment, or whatever it takes to keep this facility always looking new. MSF will also honor one elementary and one high school student each year with a full scholarship. It is our hope and prayer that thousands of lives are impacted as they walk through these doors. Thank you for all who came out and supported us on this day!
Comments
There aren't any comments yet, be the first!