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.