April 2025
Grit, Grace, and Growth:
The Girls’ Volleyball Journey to Puerto Rico
By Acarey Rosa-Hadley
When I first met Salma in 4th grade, I jokingly told her, “You’re tall — you need to play volleyball for me!” She still remembers that moment. And so do I—because it turned out to be the start of something beautiful.
This group of girls has always been different. From the beginning, they showed up, worked hard, and played with humility and courage. They built a culture of grit and grace—on the volleyball court and in the classroom.
This spring, they took the next big step: competing in their first international volleyball tournament at the Puerto Rico Volleyball Challenge.
When we arrived, the gym was massive. Dozens of courts, elite players, and the pressure of a college recruitment-style combine. I couldn’t walk in with them—but just before they stepped through the doors, one player looked back and said:
“Coach… will you pray for us?”
That moment showed me they had learned more than just how to pass, set, or spike. They had learned to lean on God when the pressure was high and the challenge was real.
Over the weekend, they competed fiercely, represented Doulos and the Dominican Republic with pride, and grew in ways only God could orchestrate.
“I am in awe of their courage to dream big, work hard, and live with grit and grace. Most of all, I am in awe of their faith—the quiet, brave kind that turns to God in every moment of uncertainty.”
Aprils Highlights
Macho Volleyball Showdown
High school boys battled it out in a lunchtime Macho Volleyball tournament—with the staff taking on the winning student team on Friday. Unfortunately, the staff lost. (Please pray for their sore muscles.)
Spiritual Emphasis Week
Grief expert Donna Mathiowetz led us through the theme “Built to Bend: Life Pulls, But Faith Holds.” She equipped students, parents, and staff with practical tools for processing grief and disappointment through the lens of faith.
Staff Appreciation Week
We celebrated our incredible team—thanking God for not just what they do, but who they are. From teachers to support staff, their lives shine the light of Christ on campus every day.
Senior Capstone Projects
As part of their final year, our seniors presented their capstone projects—reflecting on their years at Doulos and how they’re preparing to launch into what God has next. It was powerful to see how their faith-based education has shaped their vision for life.
Please Join Us In Praying For…
👥 Recruitment – We’re asking God to raise up the next wave of teachers, leaders, and missionary staff to serve at Doulos. Please pray for clarity, courage, and connection as we recruit for the coming school year.
📚 Last Month of School – May is a full and formative season. Please pray for endurance, focus, and joyful hearts as students and staff finish strong.