Fort Trial Baptist Church is preparing for the 2025 season of its long-running Upward basketball and cheerleading program, which has been providing a safe, encouraging environment for children to explore sports for 22 years.
Lead Pastor Daniel Reed, who organizes the program each year, highlighted its core mission. “Upward Sports is a nationwide, possibly worldwide, sports ministry based out of South Carolina,” said Reed. “While the focus is on sports, the goal is also to share the love of God with children.”
Last season saw approximately 160 elementary-age participants, including 110 basketball players and 50 to 60 cheerleaders. The program is open to children from kindergarten through fifth grade.
“Our goal is to provide a safe, fun, and encouraging environment for kids to learn basketball and cheerleading,” Reed said. “Parents consistently give feedback about the positive atmosphere and how their children are encouraged to grow and enjoy the sport.”
The league emphasizes fundamentals and equal playtime for all children. While older participants experience a more competitive environment, the primary focus remains on skill development and sportsmanship. “Every child will start at least one game during the season, and all kids get equal playtime,” Reed explained.
Each practice includes not only skill-building but also devotions that focus on virtues like forgiveness, keeping the emphasis on faith. Devotions are also shared with the crowd during halftime, helping to point the entire community toward Jesus.
Reed, who has served as both a coach and program director, said one of his favorite moments each season is witnessing a child score their first basket. “The whole gym erupts in cheers. That joy on their face—it’s the highlight of the season,” he shared.
The program is divided into three divisions: kindergarten, first and second grade, and third through fifth grade, with at least four teams in each division. Participants practice one hour a week for 10 weeks, with games held on Saturdays from January through mid-March.
All coaches undergo background checks, with most hailing from Fort Trial Baptist Church or trusted members of the community. “Our coaches are people we can vouch for, ensuring a safe environment for the kids,” Reed said.
Evaluations for the upcoming season will be held on October 21 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., November 2 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., and November 20 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Fort Trial Baptist Church, located at 170 Oak Level Road, Stanleytown.
Registration costs $65 per child, and parents can call 276-629-2964 for more information or sign up online at [registration.upward.org/UPW86996](http://www.registration.upward.org/UPW86996).
