When Nate Bransford came to LeTourneau, he had no intention of playing college soccer. A missionary kid from Kijabe, Kenya, Bransford attended LeTourneau primarily to study mathematics and education while part of the Honors College.
By the end of his time at LeTourneau, Bransford was not only a key member of the YellowJackets but was a leader on the team and in the spiritual formation of his teammates.
A three-year player for the program, Bransford was an integral part of two conference tournament teams and a tournament runner-up. In addition, he served on the soccer leadership team and was instrumental in spiritual mentorship to younger players. All those characteristics made him the perfect honoree for this year's R.G. LeTourneau Legacy Award.
“Nate left a lasting impression in our men's soccer program through his example, love for his teammates, commitment, and humility,” said head coach TJ Milby. “His impact and example on the field through his commitment to excellence will resonate well beyond his graduation. More importantly, his relational impact to point his teammates towards the Lord will resonate forever.”
On the field, Bransford earned All-SCAC honorable mention as a senior and was LeTourneau's representative on the SCAC All-Sportsmanship team. He only played in 12 matches after returning from an early season injury, but that did not stop him from making an impact. His play helped LeTourneau to a pair of shutouts and a 1.09 goals against average in conference play as the YellowJackets qualified for the SCAC Tournament and advanced to the semifinals.
“If I had to narrow down my experience at LeTourneau to one word, I would say ‘formational,'” said Bransford. “LeTourneau has provided a community and a place to grow most importantly in my love of Jesus and relationship with Him.”
In the classroom, Bransford excelled. Majoring in mathematics and theological studies, he graduated summa cum laude in December with a pair of degrees and was a three-time conference all-academic honoree.
He sought out opportunities to serve the campus and the local community. Bransford worked at the campus library, he was a peer advisor, he volunteered at the annual Night to Shine in Longview. He volunteered as a U10 recreation boys soccer coach, both as an assistant and then as the head coach.
Bransford's lasting impact comes with through his leadership and relationships with peers and teammates. He assisted in running a Bible study for the soccer team. He was part of the program's leadership team that would meet regularly with players to come alongside them and guide them through various aspects of college life, including spiritual mentorship.
He may not have thought God intended him to be a member of the LeTourneau men's soccer program, but God used Nate's abilities to lead and shape his those around him.
“My prayer for my teammates is that they may have a formational encounter with Jesus Christ while at LeTourneau," added Bransford. “If there is any truly lasting impact, it will only be through knowing Christ and enjoying a relationship with Him.”
