The Upward Sports logo in white on a black background. The word 'UPWARD' has a star graphic and 'SPORTS' is written below.

What is Upward Sports?  

Upward Sports is an opportunity for kids and their families to participate in an organized sports league in a clean, safe, and family-friendly atmosphere. Leaders and coaches are dedicated to helping develop young athletes spiritually, athletically, mentally and socially. Players and coaches will spend time each week on the court developing their athletic skills, as well as time off court encouraging them in their relationship with God.We’re all about a positive sports experience. 

What Makes Upward Sports Different

Friendly Environment

Where kids can have fun learning how to be a Christian witness.

Leadership

Are trained coaches and referees who will encourage your child.

Christ-Centered

Lessons are shared at each practice and game

Why Upward Sports?

As your athlete participates in Upward Sports, they will be intentionally taught using a 360 Degree Progression. This focuses on developing a total athlete, who is encouraged mentally, athletically, spiritually, and socially. 

Upward Sports follows a unique set of rules designed to promote healthy competition and sportsmanship while promoting the objectives of the game. Read the full set of rules: upward.org/rules 

In order for players to develop, repetition is essential. Coaches adhere to a unique participation system for each game that allows all players the opportunity to develop and improve. 

At each practice, your player’s coach will share a life lesson with the team that will center on Christlike virtues. 

Volunteer with Upward

Upward Sports runs on the dedication of volunteers who care about kids and love pointing them to Jesus. Explore the roles below and find a way to serve that fits your gifts and availability.

Impact the lives of young athletes by volunteering as a head coach! Use your talents and passion for sport to make sure each player feels welcome, appreciated, inspired, and confident. Be the one to teach young athletes the rules of the game, help them develop new skills through sport-specific drills, and instill a competitive spirit that will prepare them for success in the game, and in life. Don’t worry, Upward Sports will be there with you all along the way and provide all the resources you’ll need to instruct your team and have a lasting impact in their lives. Time Commitment: 2 hrs/week (1 hour practice; 1 hour game; 30 minutes – 1 hour preparation time)t

Do you have a passion for the sport and have a working knowledge of the rules of the game? If so, use this gift to make an impact in the lives of young athletes as an Upward Sports Referee. Be the one who can make the necessary calls, uphold the integrity of the game, and help athletes improve their understanding of the sport. We need you! Time Commitment: 1 hr/week (normally on Saturdays)

Make a difference in the lives of young athletes by helping the head coach teach both athletic skills and values for success. Use this time to see if you might want to be a head coach in the future. Time Commitment: 2 hr/week (1 hour practice; 1 hour game)

Prayer Partner, Scorekeeper, Concession, Greeter, Public Announcer

League Information

Season Details

Registration for the 2027 Season opens Fall 2026.

Mandatory Evaluations

Basketball players must attend a mandatory evaluation (appointment required). If you’ve registered your player, but are unable to attend an evaluation, a refund of your registration fee will be issued to you, and your child will not be placed on the team roster.

League Schedule

Week of January 5, 2026 – Basketball and Cheer Practices Begin 

Basketball Teams practice one evening/week: Tuesday or Friday 

Cheer Squad practices: Friday 

January 24, 2026 – Saturday Games Begin 

Game Start Times: 8:30am, 9:45am, 11am, 12:15pm, 1:30pm, 2:45pm 

January 31, 2026 – Picture Day 

March 20, 2026 – Basketball and Cheer Year-end Celebration 

March 21, 2026 – Final Basketball Game Day

Regular Season Ends - March 27-28, 2026 – L4 Division (5th/6th Grades) Postseason Tournament

Refund Policy

Refund requests must be sent to League Director via email.

100% refund when request received by December 1st 

50% refund when request received by December 15 

0% refund when request received after December 15

Contact:   

Jeff Goodrich, League Director [email protected]
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