Upward program places values ahead of victories

A winter youth basketball program in its second year in Cape Girardeau is thriving by teaching that winning isn't everything.

In this league, players are recognized for sportsmanship and Christian behavior.

The Upward Basketball program was started by Lynwood Baptist Church member Richard Kinsey, who was asked to help by his church's minister.

"It grew way beyond what we expected," said Kinsey, a Cape Girardeau resident.

The program started with 180 participants last year and now has 290. The league plays each Saturday on the three courts at the Southeast Missouri State University Recreation Center.

"It's not about winning," said Terry Brown, one of the coaches in the league. "There are so many stories to tell. Sometimes the kids get so excited they hardly know where they are." Kinsey said referees not only whistle violations but also call the players together to discuss the infraction.

"They all walk with the ball," said referee Byron Aden, a dentist. "I allow a few steps but when they get to five I blow the whistle." Coaches will award different-colored stars to be ironed onto shirts. Gold is for best sportsman, and white is for most Christ-like. Everyone gets some kind of star.

Each of the 32 teams has six to 10 boys or girls from first through sixth grades. Each player's skill levels are evaluated and entered into a computer. The computer selects teams with a goal of keeping the teams roughly equal. All team members get equal playing time.

Practices begin in December, and games are played in January and February.

Practices and games have a short halftime devotional discussing a personal relationship with Jesus.

"We only tried to recruit from Cape Girardeau," Kinsey said, "but five cities and towns, including Fruitland and Chaffee, are represented." The players are from 35 churches, with several claiming no church affiliation.

Upward Basketball programs exist in Poplar Bluff, Cairo, Carbondale, and Marion, according to the program's website, www.upward.com.

The season ends with an awards ceremony and entertainment. Each of last year's participants received a prize.

Kinsey said ths year's event may pack the Lynwood Baptist Church worship center, which holds more than 800.

"The goal is to teach kids respect for authority, good sportsmanship, and show the love of Christ to kids through coaches and refs," Kinsey said.