WINONA LAKE – The game of basketball, through all of life’s trials and tribulations, has always been a constant for Chad Hoffer.

It’s always been a source of comfort and strength for the former hoops star at Tippecanoe Valley High School.

Hoffer has used the game he loves to give him a new direction in life now too.

Hoffer, now 25 years old, is a freshman member of the Grace College men’s basketball team.

“This is a great opportunity that I’ve taken full grasp of,” said Hoffer. “I’m a lot stronger now mentally and spiritually. Now, I know where to put my faith at.”

Hoffer, who graduated from Valley in 2008, has seen his share of struggles.

“I lost my way for a long time,” said Hoffer honestly. “I had my troubles with the law when I was younger and then I had a couple of serious car wrecks that I walked away from that made me stop and think about things.

“I never lost my dream of playing college basketball and basketball has always kept me going. I always was able to find a group of guys to play, even when I was away from the game.

“I’ve known coach K (Grace College coach Jim Kessler) since I was a little kid coming to his camps here at Grace. God put a plan together and showed my that this is where I should be.”

Hoffer, who attended Purdue for a while after high school, has given the Lancers  a lift this season off the bench. The athletic 6-2 guard brings high energy and a penchant for providing a spark every time he hits the court.

“I’ve just got a passion for the game,” said Hoffer, who is originally from Texas. “Sometimes, the guys make fun of me for being so enthusiastic. But, if you are not showing enthusiasm out there you are not having fun.

“I see myself as an elder leader on the team. I’ve played the game a long time and have a lot of knowledge of the game. I’m athletic and see my role as an attacking one for us.”

Hoffer, who also played football in high school, is averaging five points and two rebounds in 15 minutes of playing time per game. The Lancers, who are ranked No. 21, will take a 21-9 mark into a home contest tonight versus Mt. Vernon Nazarene in the first round of the Crossroads League Tournament.

“I’ve known Chad a long time and always liked him,” said Grace College coach Jim Kessler. “We had some serious talks when he contacted me and said he was interested in playing for us. He has a good heart, loves the game and wanted to do this. I believe in Chad.

“He’s done everything we’ve asked of him. I’m always willing to give a guy a chance and to try and help a young man. That is what God has called me to do. Redemption is the whole idea of Christianity.”

Kessler, who has won 720 games in his 38th season at Grace, likes what Hoffer has brought to the court for his talented team.

“Chad is versatile, has athleticism and can attack the basket,” said Kessler. “He defends well and creates matchup problems for the other team and understands what it means to compete.”

“Basketball is just the tool. Guys like Chad are why I do what I do. There’s a greater meaning to this than just the basketball and just the wins and losses.

“Chad is a great story. These are the real trophies for me. To see him succeed.”