Upward Sports
“Where every child is a winner!”
Upward is one of the most exciting evangelistic sports ministries in the country. Designed to promote community outreach and to develop volunteer leaders, Upward uses something as simple as the games of basketball, flag football, & soccer to reach children and their families for Christ.
Upward was founded by Caz McCaslin. Since it's beginning in 1986, the emphasis has been upon Christ-likeness and good sportsmanship, not championships and trophies. It was founded upon Colossians 3:17, "Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him." Today, there are over 100,000 children participating in Upward worldwide. Specifically designed for K-6th grade boys and girls, Upward seeks to develop the self-esteem of each participant, while teaching respect for authority, sportsmanship, character, and skills.
Purpose Statements -
The purpose of Upward is to recognize that EVERY CHILD IS A WINNER by promoting:
1. Salvation – To share the love of Christ with everyone involved in an Upward ministry.
2. Character– To help every child grow as Jesus did – spiritually, physically, mentally, and socially.
3. Self-Esteem– To help every child grow in their understanding and enjoyment of sports.
Values of Upward
- The Expectation of God Moments -- We believe that God is at work all around us
- The Life of Integrity - We believe that how we live is more important that what we say
- The Discipline of Excellence - We believe in serving that exceeds expectations
- The Priority of Children - We believe that Every Child Is A Winner
For more information on Upward, contact Laura Torrisi.
What makes Upward different?
- Allowing for only one hour of practice and one hour game each week.
- Using a designed rotation system to give all players equal playing time.
- Training coaches and referees to teach and encourage, not to intimidate.
- Not keeping score in younger leagues.
- Not maintaining league standings in any division.
- Providing stars for every kid and their contribution to the team
- Exposing players to Scripture-based devotions each week and halftime devotions for spectators each week.
- Seeking to incorporate participants and their families into the local church after the season is complete.
- Providing opportunities to see changed hearts and lives among the children and their family members.
How Can I Get Involved?
Coaching
Referee
Team Parent
Devotional Leader
Prayer Partner
