Methodist church offers youth basketball league

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Neighbors | Submitted .Cheerleaders from the Upward Sports Basketball and Cheerleading program at Poland United Methodist Church rooted for their team. The cheerleading program is open to all children kindergarten to sixth grade.

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Neigbors | Submitted Members of Upward Sports Basketball program showed good sportsmanship after a game. The basketball and cheerleading program is open to children from kindergarten to sixth grade.

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Neighbors | Submitted .Members of Upward Sports Basketball and Cheerleading program took a few minutes out of game time to pray. Registration for the program is being accepted at Poland United Methodist Church until Oct. 31.

Registration for the youth Upward Sports Basketball and Cheerleading program are being accepted at Poland United Methodist Church until Oct. 31.

The coed league is open to children K-6 and is fun for kids and families. The program offers supportive coaches and a positive sports environment and is designed to bring out “the winner” in every child and the true spirit of the game. “Upward is an opportunity to learn about Christ in a fun and positive atmosphere,” said Jared Woodward, Upward Director and Youth Pastor at the church.

“This is an opportunity for young people to experience sports fairly and equally. We teach the kids the basic skills of the sport and give them all equal playing time during each game and throughout the season.”

The registration cost is $65 or $55 before Oct. 3. There will be three different age divisions for basketball and cheerleading and each practice consists of 40 minutes of instruction and 10 minutes of devotion.

A skill camp will be Nov. 13 to evaluate players so teams can be equally matched.

“Upward takes time out of each practice and game to talk about God and His presence in our lives. Sometimes, this is the first time that a child might learn about Jesus Christ. We want to help the child to build a healthy relationship with Christ, but also build their self-confidence,” Woodward said.

The league is seeking volunteer coaches, referees and general help during the season to make sure the kids have fun. To enroll or volunteer, call Jared at 330-519-3981 or download the player form at www.polandumc.org.