VOX:SPORTS Community Sports in the
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In VOX magazine’s ‘kickoff’ edition I want to share a story from the “Upward Leagues” – an Irish sports programme with the slogan ‘every child is a winner’! ‘Upward’ serves children and their families through basketball and football leagues hosted by volunteers from churches in local communities. The programme aims to build self-esteem and confidence using scripture verses and Christian principles. Committed coaches provide sports training as well as a seven minute ‘coaches time’ each week. Children also receive ‘stars’
and applause from parents and teamates for sportsmanship, effort, defence, offence and most Christ-like attitudes after each match. There are visible changes in children’s attitudes and confidence as they participate. Two girls first met at the “Upward” league and quickly became firm friends. The players loved their ‘coaches times’ so much that they went home and asked their parents about God. The parents did their best but found they could not answer all the questions. One day the girls asked their coach to visit. After 10 minutes the girls were satisfied and went outside to play. Three hours and many cups of tea later, the parents were still asking questions. Both mothers attended an Alpha course to find out more about God. One woman eventually came to realise the relevance of Jesus for her life. She asked God to forgive her past and began a new journey of faith with the support of friends. The girls meanwhile remain best friends and continue to participate in the basketball and football Upward Leagues in their community! VOX:SPORT is written by Daniel Tabb. Born in the United States, Daniel moved to Dublin in January 2002. He is the founder and director of “Sports Across Ireland”.
20 | VOX | Jan - Mar 2009