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Message from the director

Thank you for visiting our web site.  We hope that the information you find here will be the starting point to what could be a life changing opportunity for everyone involved because of the unique experience conducting and playing in Upward sports can bring.  We offer more than the normal sports league. In Upward, not only do you receive instructions in sports, but we also provide the opportunity to learn lessons about life.

Last year, more than 500,000 boys and girls from ages 5 to 15 participated in Upward around the world. We are hoping to have even more children particpate this year and expecting thousands of volunteers to participate as well. Upward gives the tools to equip their volunteers to reach out to not only the children that participate, but also the parents, friends and families of every child.

Get in the Game! Start a League Today!

Why Children?

Children are our future.  If the church can get involved with supporting local families in the community, then they can have an impact on that future.

A child’s moral foundation is in place by the age of 12 to 15.  Teaching relevant moral truths in the context of sports will provide a better chance of them being received. 

75% of children have dropped out of organized sports by the age of 13.  Having a sports experience focused on fun and fairness may keep them involved for life


What are these children saying about organized sports?

37% Wished no parents watched them play

41% Indicated that they've awakened in the middle of the night worrying about a game

69% Indicated that they prefer a coach who puts more priority on fun than winning

71% Said it wouldn't matter if no score were kept in the game.

74% Said they had seen out of control parents at their game

75% Have dropped out of organized sports by age 13

Sports Illustrated For Kids magazine
August 2001