Local Church Member Honored as Hero of the Match at Nashville SC Game for Disaster Relief Work
Johnny Rodman, a local church member from the Oasis Church, Tenn., was recognized as the Hero of the Match during Nashville SC’s home game against Montreal on March 22, 2025, for his work in disaster relief. According to the Nashville SC website, the Hero of the Match honors “local first responders and outstanding citizens who make a difference in the community.”
Rodman’s journey into disaster relief began in 2021 after a devastating tornado struck Mayfield, Ky. He eagerly volunteered to help victims and was deeply moved by the experience. A year later, he founded his own nonprofit, Light in the Storm Disaster Relief Ministries. Since then, his organization has responded to 11 major disasters across the southeastern U.S., including tornadoes in Arkansas and Kentucky, as well as floods and hurricanes such as Hurricane Helene in North Carolina. The organization relies entirely on volunteers and donors.
“We’ve had 740 volunteers serve with us,” Rodman said. “We don’t take a dime from those we help. Our mission is to share the love Jesus through acts of service.”
Rodman now works full-time directing the ministry, having left his job to fully to commit to relief work. He says he views each trip as a form of domestic missionary work.
For the Nashville SC match, Rodman and his family were treated to tickets, merchandise, and a moment on the field to wave to fans. He added that this was his first time attending any professional sporting event.
“It was such a humbling experience,” Rodman said. “We’ve been in the background for years doing this work. To be recognized like this is not about me, but about shining a light on what God’s doing through us.”
Rodman hopes to expand his ministry and inspire others to get involved in similar efforts.
“One of the reasons I do this is because I want to give God my youth,” Rodman said. “While I’m still strong and able to help, I want to be His hands and feet wherever He may send me.”
