Since 1989, soccer participation in America has increased by more than 72%. More than 7 million 6 to 11 year olds participate in soccer in America (the largest participating group).
Why Upward Soccer?
Upward Soccer provides a chance for our church to experience the fastest growing sport in the US to evangelize our community. By keeping in mind that Every Child is a Winner, Ooltewah Baptist Church is able to help you provide a league that promotes salvation, character, and self-esteem in all who participate through:
Sportsmanship and competitiveness in proper perspective by not maintaining league standings in any division.
Maximizing the family schedule by having only one hour of practice and one game each week.
Equipping coaches and referees to minister by providing extensive teaching tools and simplified rules format.
- Allowing the coach to focus on ministering to children and their families, instead of game strategy, by having a set substitution system where all players are allowed equal playing time and equal opportunity for improvement.
- Maximizing character growth opportunities by exposing players to Scripture-based devotions during each practice and spectators to halftime testimonies each game day.
- Encouraging each player with a game day award following every game.
- Providing opportunities to see changed hearts and lives among children, family members, and volunteers who experience our Upward ministry.
- Building toward a harvest time at the Upward Awards Celebration where participants and parents are given an opportunity to respond to the gospel.