PHOENIXVILLE, PA – There were a lot of great things Jon Kozak ('11) could do on the baseball diamond, but there are even more great things he has been doing since his playing days ended nearly four years ago.  In 2011, Kozak became UVF's second NCCAA All-American, following Frank Lovero who was awarded the honor in 2009 and 2010.  Kozak was known as the type of player that would do anything to help his team win and always put forth maximum effort --an approach that continues to define his journey.

"Playing a sport in college was a dream come true.  Growing up I spent so much time playing baseball and wrestling, so being able to continue in competition for 3 more years was incredible," Kozak said.  However, baseball was not his only motivation to come to Valley Forge.  He also had dreams of becoming a pastor.  So, the opportunity to play ball and receive ministry preparation was something he could not pass up.  He also recalled how UVF provided the right environment for him, "I had never been a part of a team with the character and commitment to Christ that our baseball team had.  Most men's sports teams are a crude and volatile environment, but our team was filled with great guys and many who are also serving as pastors across the country."

God and Baseball -- it appeared the picture couldn't have been more perfect for Kozak.  However, not everything was picture-perfect.  "The greatest struggle I faced during my time at UVF was maturing and handling the independence college affords you.  My first year or so at Valley Forge I had to make a lot of important character decisions about who I wanted to be.  I dealt with a lot of fear and questioned my call to ministry," Kozak continued, "The environment at Valley Forge is what helped the most.  Having chapel every day, genuine and caring professors and being surrounded by good friends was instrumental in God filling me with confidence in Him and the man he has created me to be."

As Kozak's journey continued at UVF, one of the professors he met made a significant impact on his life.  "I had Biblical Interpretation with Pastor/Professor Eric Miller.  His love for the Word and ability to teach was inspirational.  The class changed the way I look at and study the Bible."  Kozak would go on to attend Miller's church for the next two years.

Two months after graduation, Kozak moved to Buffalo, NY to be full-time youth pastor at The Tabernacle.  Six months after that he was married to his long-time girlfriend, Kari.  The couple pastored for three years in Buffalo before moving to their home state, Michigan, and began serving as Youth Pastor's at New Life Christian Fellowship.  This past January the two had their first child, Adelynn.

Speaking about his experiences thus far, Kozak said, "I have had the opportunity to train the next generation in what it means to live for and serve God.  I've also had the opportunity to speak the hope of Christ into many young lives that are hopeless and searching.  A lot of young people today are just looking for people to build relationships with them and care about what's going on in their lives.  My wife and I really enjoy being able to do that."  When asked what one of the biggest lessons he has learned so far, he said, "Life is a process and God is more concerned about whether or not I'm becoming like Christ every day, than what I am doing or accomplishing." 

In the immediate future, Jon would like to finish his master's degree within the next year or so and compete in a half-ironman triathlon.  He also stated that he continues to strive to be the best husband, father, pastor, and friend he can be.

When the former All-American was asked about what advice he would give current student-athletes, he said, "Obviously enjoy it because it doesn't last forever.  This is your last chance to be a part of competition that matters.  Make the most of the relationships you have with your teammates and coaches."

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