Below are some of the most asked questions about Upward. Please let us know if you have any additional questions about the league.
There are divisions for boys and girls starting at age 5 (with some 4 year olds with parent request) through age 14. Below are the different divisions and grade break downs:
Standard registration cost $65 which includes the uniform. Optional matching basketball shorts or cheer mock turtleneck cost an additional $15.
Last year there were around 430 kids who participated in basketball. Approximately 75 girls did cheerleading.
The Kindergarten and 1st - 2nd grade divisions play their games at Walnut Creek Community Church (900 64th St, Des Moines). The 3rd - 4th grade, 5th - 6th grade, and 7th - 8th grade divisions play their games at Merrill Middle School (5301 Grand Ave, Des Moines).
All games are played on Saturdays, starting at 8am with the last games ending around 5pm. More detailed information on when your child will have games will be posted shortly.
Games last approximately 60 minutes. Here is more info on rules and game format.
Practices are held at various Des Moines Elementary Schools and Walnut Creek Community Church. While not guaranteed, Upward staff attempt to make practice locations as convenient as possible for families.
Practices are held starting at 4:30pm with the last practices beginning at 7:30pm. When your child attends one of the scheduled basketball evaluations, you will complete a practice availability form which will indicate which days and times you are unable to have practice. Generally, younger participates have practices earlier in the evening, while older children will have a higher likelihood of having practice at one of later times.
Practices last 60 minutes. It is recommended that players arrive early for practice to allow time for the following: change into gym shoes, shorts, and be ready to start practice on time.
Games last approximately 60 minutes. Here is more info on rules and game format.
Upward is the largest faith-based youth sports program in the world, hosted by over 2,600 churches. Des Moines Upward is hosted be Walnut Creek Community Church. Their are 3 total churches in the Des Moines that offer Upward leagues.
Upward Basketball and Cheerleading practices begin the week of January 4. Games begin Saturday, January 16. The Upward Awards Celebration concludes the season on Sunday, March 7. Registration begins in October and ends when divisions are full.
Dave Rude
Upward League Director
515.865.6181
dave@desmoinesupward.org
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