Hands down, coaching Upward Soccer is one of my favorite Louisville memories! Stampede didn’t go undefeated, but Ws aren’t the most important thing in this soccer league. These 4- to 11-year-old kids get equal playing time, awards after each game, new friends, and great exercise. Far more, though, they get to hear the gospel every week. Upward Soccer meets a practical need, while providing an opportunity to give unbelievers hope in Jesus.

Last year, more than 75 percent of players were not N&O churchgoers. Yet, during each practice and game, they heard about the sinner’s need, the Father’s holiness, and the Son’s sacrifice, and they were encouraged to respond with faith. And this isn’t just a ministry for kids! Upward Soccer gives coaches an opportunity to build relationships with the players’ parents. Too, the parents help their child memorize a Scripture verse each week! What a worthy use of our time!

How You Can Get Involved:
Coaching takes about 2 hours a week, while leading devotionals is maybe a 30-minute commitment (and a very flexible schedule). Inexperience coaching or leading devotionals is no obstacle. In fact, you’ll be trained to serve on Wednesday, July 18. Practices and games on the church lawn begin in September. For more information, or to sign up to coach, lead devotionals, or even referee, contact Blake Ring, 502.493.3939, bring@ninthandobaptist.org.

Traditionally, our class has seen the involvement of at least four to six people in coaching or devotional ministry. Let’s continue this tradition!