Coaching is more than basketball, it is a ministry

opportunity to reach children for the Lord!

How we help our coaches?

• Provide coaches training

• Provide coaches book & binder as a guide for the entire season

• Keep you updated on league activities by providing weekly Newsletters

• Each league has a League Commissioner to answer questions, help with concerns, provide leadership, and keep you informed

• All game and practices scheduled for you

• All uniforms and team gear supplied

• Provide a coaches shirt

• All rotation schedules for games pre-planned

• Experience one of the most rewarding season of sports ministry available

• A chance to change a child's life forever with only 2 hours a week

What does it mean to be a coach?

As an Upward coach, you should diligently prepare for practices and games. Be prepared to teach athletic skills, but also to instill confidence, boost self-esteem, and share Christ with the children. You may be their only opportunity to hear the name of Jesus.

Drills, practice outlines and devotions are provided in the coach’s playbook and cheerbook. Coaches should share the provided devotions with the children at the midpoint of practice to accommodate children who may arrive late or leave early. 

The gospel presentation is used to lead the children through the plan of salvation at their last practice. Encourage children to bring their Winner Magazines to the last practice to visually reinforce this presentation.

During the devotion time at practice, review the weekly scripture verse with the children. Every child should have the opportunity to participate in learning the verse. At the end of practice, award a green star to every child who participated in the scripture learning.

Actions and reactions during the game will have a lasting effect that either opens or closes the door to ministry. Coaches should be sure to practice the circle of affirmation when interacting with referees.

Following games each week, coaches should award an iron-on star to every child. Make it a point to explain why the child is receiving each particular star. Parents should be encouraged to cheer for the children as the stars are presented.