Upward Basketball and Cheerleading is a sports ministry designed for boys and girls in kindergarten through 6th grade. Here in Washtenaw County we have youth from Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, Milan, Saline and more. Upward teams participate in practices and league games. The philosophy of Upward Basketball and Cheerleading promotes the idea that “Every Child Is A Winner”. In addition to providing a fun environment for learning basketball skills, Upward also provides the opportunity to improve a child’s self-esteem, strengthen their character, develop their respect for authority, and, above all, allows the child to grow spiritually. During practices Upward coaches share a Bible-based devotion with the players. At halftime of Upward games a volunteer speaker shares a short testimony about how they have seen God at work. These testimonies are directed toward the parents in attendance.

The 2011 season marks our 8th year of Upward Basketball and Cheerleading in Washtenaw County.  Upward began in Washetnaw County in 2004 and at that time we had 75 youth enrolled.  We have grown at a phenomenal rate and anticipate over 600 children for the 2011 season.  Last year our Upward league consisted of 54 teams with 467 children in basketball and 41 in Cheerleading. 

We have been very blessed by so many: volunteer coaches, referees, and other support staff have willingly devoted their time and talent in order to run the program. Although our Upward league has seen tremendous growth we have maintained the team sizes at a level where each child receives ample playing time and attention.

"Our culture today has created a "win at all cost" mentality—the most points, the most trophies, the most championships. These things generally define a winner. Upward defines winning as learning and/or teaching lessons in the game of life—lessons that last long after the season ends."

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about us.  We hope you will prayerfully consider joining our Upward Sports League.

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If you have any questions, please feel free to contact:  Paul Knickelbein - Upward Director at director@washtenawupward.org