Since 1980, Phil has been a Youth Speaker, Worship Leader, Student Pastor, and a Youth Ministry Trainer.  As a Youth Pastor, he has been implementing the First Priority strategy since 1992.  He holds degrees in Religious Education / Youth Ministry from Ouachita Baptist University and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. As a collegiate Track & Cross Country runner, in 1980 he began serving with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.  He has served as a Student Pastor in churches in Arkansas, Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi since 1982.  He also served as a Missionary in Spain from 1986-88 where he served in the roles of Student Pastor, Worship Leader, & Recreation Director.  With his background in running, playing team sports, and coaching Cross Country, Track, & Soccer in Middle, Junior High, & Senior High schools, he believes in the value of strong coaching-style relationships as a means to evangelizing and discipling students.  Phil and his wife Windy have two daughters and one son, and they live in Rogers, AR.