What I’ve Learned Watching Families Walk Through Our Gym Doors
Written by Alan Royalty – FBC Alpharetta, GA
As a league director, I’ve had the privilege of watching families walk through our gym doors – week after week, season after season. And over time, I’ve learned that parents are looking for more than just a place for their kids to play. They want a space that’s fun, safe, and challenging, a place where their children can grow, develop skills, and experience the joy of competition. Running a well-organized, first-class league or camp does more than teach basketball or cheerleading; it opens the door to meaningful ministry.
Coaches play a central role in this experience. Parents notice the difference when coaches challenge their kids while holding them accountable, but also encourage them, celebrate their wins, and offer positivity instead of criticism. As Philippians 2:3 reminds us:
“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.”
This principle isn’t just a verse we read; it’s one we strive to live out on the court and the sidelines. Actions speak louder than words, and families quickly notice when a coach genuinely cares about their child.
Here’s something that always surprises people: more than 40% of families who walk through our gym doors don’t have a local church home. For many, Upward Sports is their first connection to the church – and to God’s love. It’s a reminder of the harvest that’s ready all around us, just as Matthew 9:37 says:
“Then he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few.’”
A REAL MINISTRY OPPORTUNITY
40%
of families who walk through our gym doors don’t have a local church home.
Creating a positive and encouraging environment doesn’t just help kids play better; it makes them, and their parents, more receptive to learning about God. Weekly devotions, conversations about faith, and special moments like Awards Night provide opportunities for families to encounter Jesus. At our most recent Winter League Upward Basketball with Cheerleading Awards Night, thirty children made first-time decisions to trust Jesus as their Savior, and many more expressed curiosity about what it means to have a personal relationship with Him. John 3:16-17 captures the hope behind these moments perfectly:
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life… but in order that the world might be saved through him.”
When we focus on creating a fun, safe, and encouraging environment, we aren’t just teaching sports skills, we’re creating opportunities for kids and families in our community to experience the life-changing love of Jesus Christ. And that, more than anything, makes it all worthwhile.
Starting a church sports league begins with one simple step: your church saying ‘yes.’ Upward Sports is ready to partner with you to create a first-class, organized, and intentional league by providing the resources and guidance your team needs to succeed. Take the next step – schedule a discovery call to learn how your church can make an impact through sports.
Is your church ready to create a first-class, organized, and detailed Upward Sports experience? Visit www.upward.org/church-leaders
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