Upward program celebrates another year
MOUNT VERNON — All across the United States, there are a variety of leagues to teach children the skills of basketball, but one is setting itself apart from the others, particularly in the Knox County area. The Upward Basketball program wrapped up another successful season on Saturday night, which saw participants in grades one through six develop their skills, both on and off the court.
The Upward program is a nationwide program that is designed to help children develop skills in basketball, cheerleading, flag football and soccer, as well as serve as a ministry tool for local churches. The program as a whole has seen tremendous growth over the past years. In 1999, there were 76,587 children involved in basketball all around the world, and in 2005 there were 293,456 enrolled in basketball and 397,456 involved in total Upward activities.
The program began through Mount Vernon First Church of the Nazarene in 1999 with 150 participants in the basketball program, and has grown to over 600 participants in basketball and cheerleading, which was added later into the program. The program’s growth has led to a joint partnership with First Baptist Church to expand facilities and personnel.
The program is run in large part by volunteers. Members of the church are chosen to coach, referee, set up gymnasiums, run concession stands, etc.
“I think that is one of the best parts of the program,” said Bev Stevens, children’s pastor at Mount Vernon First Church of the Nazarene. “It really helps to build relationships with having so many people involved. It’s a great way for people to get to meet one another, and have something in common, all while taking part in such a great ministry.”
Though it is a basketball program, much of the focus is put on the ministry aspect. There is a devotional given by the coach during each practice. Players are given stickers based on their performance, including the memorization of Bible verses. There is also a devotional given at halftime of the games for parents to hear.
“The important part of the program is that it is not about the competition,” said Stevens. “It’s about using basketball as a tool to teach about the love of God.”
Even though it is not necessarily the main focus, skills are important. Each game has a point of emphasis for which referees will keep a special eye out. Referees will also explain a foul when it is called, so the players know what he or she did wrong. Players are also awarded equal playing time, ensuring everyone gets a chance to work on their skills.
“I think that’s one of the better things about Upward compared to other leagues,” said Dave Adams, parent and coach of Upward participants. “It really helps the kids to develop their skills. It’s also nice to see all of the kids be awarded at the end of the season, like they were on Saturday. It was great to see the excitement that everyone had.”
At the end of every season, a celebration is held to congratulate the players on their achievement over the past season, as well as be presented with a special prize, this year, a duffle bag.
“It certainly is great to see that everyone gets rewarded,” said Shawn Moreland, Upward coach. “I’m always sure to tell the kids that it isn’t about how many baskets that they make, it’s about being sure to finish what they’ve started.”
This year’s celebration, held at the R.R. Hodges Chapel/Auditorium at Mount Vernon Nazarene University, also featured entertainment by magician Matt Fore. This year’s teams — 68 in all — were also recognized.
Another positive aspect about the league is the fact that everyone has always had the opportunity to join.
“With the help of a lot of people from various churches and organizations, we’ve been able to offer scholarships for those who are unable to afford the cost of registration for the league,” said Stevens. “We’ve never had to turn anyone away. That’s been one of the most wonderful things.”
With its focus on the future of the players not just as a player, but as a person, Upward seems to be following along with the old saying, “It’s not whether you win or lose, it’s how you play the game.”
