Veteran’s Day:  Military Families Receive Thank You From International Sports League

Upward Sports Offers Scholarship Opportunities for Military Children Through 2,600 Church Partners Across the U.S.

SPARTANBURG, S.C., Nov. 9, 2009—This Veteran's Day (Nov. 11), Upward Sports gives a big "Thank You" to military families across the U.S. by offering sports scholarships to children whose mother or father is currently providing military service in a foreign country.  In a struggling economy that is forcing many parents to cut out the extras-leaving kids without exercise, social activity and adult mentoring-Upward Sports is giving military families a much-deserved break. 

"This scholarship from Upward Sports is definitely a blessing for my family," said Sharon H., whose two sons Sam and Max play Upward Flag Football.  "It's an encouragement to know that Upward Sports recognizes the sacrifices that military kids make.  Since deployment can create real financial burdens, this scholarship will enable many military kids to play sports this year-even if money is tight."

In 2007, Upward Sports started the scholarship program for military children after Founder and President Caz McCaslin visited the Pentagon memorial honoring those who gave their lives by serving our country on Sept. 11.  Since then, Upward Sports has sponsored more than 685 military children in the U.S. with a deployed parent.  This year, they are working to get the word out about this offer so even more people can take advantage of it. 

"In an effort to serve those who serve us, Upward Sports is offering sports scholarships to all children who have a parent serving in the military and are currently deployed overseas," said Caz McCaslin.  "Offering such scholarships is just a small way for us to say thank you to those who serve our country."

INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITIES:

• Upward Sports Founder and President Caz McCaslin
• Military family who participates in Upward Sports
• Sports League Director at one of the 2,600 church partners across the U.S.

MEDIA NOTE: To schedule an interview, contact Kelly Wells (770) 813-0000 or (404) 545-1855 cell.  Media materials, including high-resolution, downloadable photos are available at DeMossNews.com/UpwardSports.

The world's largest Christian sports league for children, Upward Sports offers one of the most competitive and fun environments in kids' sports today, teaching athletic skills for the sports arena and values for life.  Upward Sports leagues equip churches to connect with families in their communities by providing sports programs-including basketball, flag football, soccer and cheerleading-for children K5 - sixth grade.  Today, more than 1 million people from 46 states and four countries play, coach, referee or volunteer in Upward Sports leagues. 

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