In the picture above they are getting ready to start a game in the Upward basketball program. The Effingham program has grown over the years and requires a number of volunteers. From the coaches to the officials to the ones working the concession stands, there are a lot of people that give a lot of time to make the program what it is.
If you haven't ever attended an Upward basketball game let me tell you just a little about it. Upward is not just about basketball. It is a Christian based program that gives kids a little bit of religion while also teaching them about teamwork and the basics of basketball. Before the games there is a is a screen set up. With pump up music playing in the background each player's name is announced as they run through the screen and out onto the court and the crowd cheers. During half time of the games there is a small presentation that either discusses a mission trip or gives a life lesson followed by a quick prayer. After the kid's games they meet with their coach and team in a room along with their families so the weekly stars can be handed out. The kids are given a star based on that week's game. They may receive the offensive star, defensive star, Christlike star or one of the others. The entire program is very impressive and Kaden has enjoyed playing in it for the past few years.
When I look at the group of boys above, there are some that are there because Mom or Dad wants them to play in hopes that they will someday love the game, there are others that love the game and all about it. My grandson is of the latter group. He loves about all sports and any chance he gets to play is a bonus for him. I always look forward to his games, be it basketball, baseball and even soccer. I just enjoy being able to watch him play and do what he loves. I am a little biased but he is pretty athletic, so it is fun to watch him play.
I have the utmost respect for those that help with any of the kids programs. I know that Todd coached American Legion baseball for a number of years. He gave up a lot of summer times with our family so he could coach a group of boys, some that wanted to be there and some that didn't. He considers those summers some of his favorites. He still enjoys seeing how those boys have turned out. When he runs into one of them or when he hears about one of them having success in life it always makes him happy. I am proud of him and the good influence he had on the boys he coached over the years.
Todd's sister has mentored a few kids over the years. I know that the influence she has had on those kids very well may make the difference in the types of adults they will be. She showed them love, and compassion. She has taken them to church with her and just been there for them. She has given them gifts and really cares about them. I am proud of her and the time she takes for others.
If you have a chance to help a child, either by coaching or just intervening if there is a need, please do so if you can. Even if it is just to be involved in a kids's life. A child in need that is helped will be forever grateful for the help they receive.
Have a great day and try to be the person that is a good influence on the world.
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