History


The Tri-State Christian Football League was started in 2011 by a group of parents who wanted to provide an opportunity for their boys to play tackle football.  That first season we had 13 players and played 3 games.  We currently have a full roster and play 12 games a season.




Mission


The Tri-State Christian Football League exists to glorify God and disciple young men through football.


Coaches

Our coaches are a dedicated group of volunteers with a wide array of experiences.  Some had never played or coached football before.  Others have been coaching public and private high school football teams for years.  The common goal of the coaches is to teach the players how to play competitive football in a way that honors God.  Colossians 3:23 says "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters." (NIV)

Coach Wagenschutz

Head Coach
TJ Wagenschutz has been with the Crusaders since 2017.  TJ and his wife Kim have been married for 17 years and have three children (Jordan 14, Brandon 12 and Alyssa 9). He was a Christian School administrator for 6 years and has been a youth pastor for 9 years. He currently serves at New Heights Baptist Church in Fort Wayne, IN. He has coached various sports including: football, basketball, baseball and volleyball. He has 13 years experience coaching football as well as 8 years of playing experience.

Coach Barkman

Assistant Coach
Lael Barkman has been with the King's Crusaders program since 2012.  Lael is the senior pastor at the Ekklesia Church in Harlan.  He is married to Cheryl Barkman and has an amazing son, Seth.  Lael has a passion for football, coaching for many years.  He strives to disciple the young men of the team to become men of God.  His favorite verse is  John 14:27, "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."

Coach Berger

Assistant Coach
Coach Greg Berger was born and raised in Ft Wayne.  He played football, basketball and track while going to public schools.  During his high school years was able to play on teams that won back to back conference championships and during senior year played on a sectional championship team. He married his best friend Toye Berger 19 years ago.  Coach Berger has been involved in many ministries since he started attending New Heights Baptist Church over 12 years ago.  He has helped to coach New Heights Baptist Christian school's basketball team and takes it to be an honor to help young men to better themselves both physically and spiritually.

King's Crusaders Field

Our practice field is located at the Christian Community Center of Harlan in Harlan Indiana.


Thank you to our Sponsors