Game On: Overcoming Hurdles in Starting Sports Ministry
A Webinar with Jennifer McCraw & Joel Flaugher
This webinar, led by Jennifer from Upward Sports and her colleague Joel Flaugher, addresses common obstacles in launching a sports ministry program. Upward Sports partners with churches to offer customizable, Christ-centered sports leagues for communities, providing resources, support, and follow-up materials for effective gospel sharing. through sports ministry.
Getting Started with Sports Ministry
Choosing the right sport and timing
Joel advises selecting a sport based on interest, expertise, community needs, and available facilities. Proper timing is crucial, with winter sports like basketball requiring immediate planning. The “My Upward” system facilitates team organization, emphasizing player evaluations and equal playing time.
Overcoming common hurdles
staffing, facilities, and player recruitment
Many successful Upward league leaders are volunteers. Churches without facilities can partner with schools, parks departments, or other churches. Setting realistic goals (45-60 players initially) and providing an exceptional experience helps attract participants.
Financial considerations & support
Startup costs vary, but programs are designed to be self-sustaining through registration fees, averaging $100 per player. Upward offers customized consultations to determine specific needs and provides comprehensive training for league directors and volunteers.
conclusions & next steps
Passion for ministry outweighs sports expertise when starting an Upward league. To begin, churches should:
- Schedule a consultation call with Upward Sports
- Assess resources and community needs
- Choose a sport and launch season
- Utilize Upward’s marketing and training tools
By partnering with Upward Sports, churches can create impactful, Christ-centered sports experiences that reach families and communities with the gospel.
The Game On webinar demonstrates that with Upward Sports’ comprehensive support, resources, and proven strategies, churches of any size can overcome common hurdles and successfully launch a sports ministry program that engages their community, develops young athletes, and creates opportunities to share the gospel through the universal language of sports.
Looking to start and plan an Upward Sports Ministry at your church? We are ready to support you!
Learn more at www.upward.org/church-leaders
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