By Johnathon Shaffer / Sports Editor
The Upward basketball and cheer program at the New Palestine United Methodist Church location has brought a lot of joy to the community. The program makes it a point to teach kids of all ages new skills, and also grow their character and their spiritual connection to God.
Upward has been in New Palestine since 2007, with director Korey Collier having been in the lead for the last eight years.
The reason why Collier takes the lead on this program and has such a huge passion is because he loves to build new connections and help players grow year by year.
“I love being here on Saturdays and spending time with the kids. It’s kind of neat to get to see them year over year. They come back each season and play, and you learn their names, and you get to know them, and you see them get better at the game. The faith aspect is important too, and you can just talk to them about the word of Jesus,” Collier said.
The experiences he has had as director of the Upward program have given Collier memories to never be forgotten.
“Anytime a game is exciting at the end, the fans really get into it. If the game can end in a tie, that’s always a lot of fun,” Collier said. “I love to hear, as the season goes on, when a kid hasn’t made a basket yet, it might be five or six weeks in and they haven’t made a basket yet. You see them make that first basket, and everyone in the crowd goes nuts, even if you’re not cheering for that team, because you just kind of know that kid had a really special moment.”
In recent years, parents have recognized this, and have brought their children to the Upward program, which has allowed it to grow exponentially in recent years.
“Yeah, our numbers are growing year over year. We expanded two seasons ago to have a location over at Zion Lutheran Church, and they play with older kids, fifth, sixth grade, seventh and eighth grade over there. The community’s growing like crazy, and we’re trying to grow along with it the best we can,” Collier said.
The best memories that Collier has had is when his kids have been involved in the program, both as players and helping with the program.
“I’ve enjoyed having my kids as a part of the program. When my son scored a basket one time and ran up on stage to give me a high five, and then went back on the court to play defense, my daughter comes over and helps, and she gives me high fives when she scores, and I’m reffing her games. So I enjoy that aspect of it,” Collier said.
With the program constantly growing, there is always room for more help with the organization in many positions, from coaches to concession workers to scoreboard operators to referees.
“We’re always looking for volunteers. So if any of the high school students want to come over and help run a scoreboard or referee a basketball game, we would love to have their help when you can sign off on volunteer hours if they need for national honor society or other organizations that need volunteer time, I’m happy to sign off. And we’d love to have their help,” Collier said.