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About Us

What is Upward Sports?
Upward Sports is an international not-for-profit sports ministry with sports programs specifically designed for children ages 5 through 13.  The Upward team provides the Upward Experience as leagues or camps to local churches who serve their community by providing the volunteers to lead, coach and referee the teams.  The format for the sports programs promotes character, self-esteem and faith development in every child. The Upward Experience consists of leagues and camps of different sports played around the world including basketball, soccer, cricket, ball hockey and cheerleading. Upward provides opportunities for children of all skill levels from beginner to advanced. Special rules have been added to the sports to allow for equal play, equal opportunity to compete, and equal opportunity to improve. 

Why focus on Children?
The early childhood years are critically important for the development of positive self-esteem, and to develop their character and values.  One of the most important ways children develop their self-esteem is by feeling competent and capable. The best way to develop these feelings of competence is by helping a child learn and enjoy new skill.

Why Sports?
Sports are a great way for children to learn about teamwork, respect for authority and sportsmanship. With an Upward sport, these key essentials are included to create the best sporting experience for every child that participates. Each Upward Sport is designed to reveal the winner in every child. Every child plays. Every child learns. Every child IS a Winner!



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