Upward Sports at New Martinsville United Methodist Church is a first-class sports experience that emphasizes healthy competition, sportsmanship, skills building, and fun. This is in stark contrast to the “win-at-all-costs” mentality found in many children sports leagues.

Upward Sports gives children from kindergarten-age through sixth grade a chance to experience good sportsmanship on and off the field. Children also receive a special recognition award after every game and have the opportunity to develop new friendships.

Upward soccer had a great season which concluded with an awards ceremony on May 22. The league also will participate in basketball and cheerleading this winter in addition to soccer in the spring.

Along with the unique sports experience, each child receives a reversible jersey, water bottle, soccer socks, car magnet, end-of-season award, and more.

To sign up, bring or mail the registration form and fee to one of four locations: Lighthouse Community Church, 249 Maple Ave., New Martinsville; First Baptist Church, 841 4th St., New Martinsville; First Christian Church, 525 Maple Ave. (drop off); or mail to New Martinsville United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 274, New Martinsville, WV 26155. The form and registration fee may be dropped off at the New Martinsville United Methodist Church office anytime between 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Registration forms are available at the Methodist or First Christian churches or at the pharmacy at Witschey’s market. Registration for basketball and cheerleading will begin in October and the early registration cost per child is $50. The first evaluation begins Jan. 4, 2011, from 5:30-7 p.m. and games begin Jan. 15, 2011. Scholarships are available by calling the New Martinsville United Methodist Church. Make checks payable to NMUMC.

For more information, call Jim Wobig or Dianna Lawrence at 304-455-1422. For more information about Upward Sports, visit www.upward.org.