Monday evening, March 17th was a very special night for the Westmoreland Baptist Church and many of our friends. The event was the first annual Awards Celebration for the Upward Basketball and Cheerleading league that was new at Westmoreland this year. The ceremony concluded 8 weeks of games and 100 days of prayer to support this new ministry. It was a great night of fun and recognition for our Upward basketball players, cheerleaders, coaches, referees, and other league volunteers. 208 people made reservations to attend the activities and no one went away disappointed!
Each player and cheerleader received an award to commemorate their participation in the league. Players received a blue and gold Upward Basketball, and each cheerleader was presented a beautiful Upward Cheerleader Picture Frame. The children were introduced separately with the spotlight on them, and the loud "game time" music playing as their names were called and they ran into the sanctuary to the applause of the crowd.
Our special guests for the evening included John Sutherland and Keith Metheney. Coach Sutherland is an assistant coach for the Marshall University Women's Basketball team and the newly appointed director of the Big Green Scholarship Program at Marshall. Mr. Metheney is a Christian comedian, ventriloquist, and magician. Coach Sutherland encouraged the kids to "always do the right thing" and not to fall into the trap of peer pressure. He also reminded the adults of the great responsibility given to us to raise these children with love, respect, and in the nurture of the Lord. Keith amazed everyone (young and old) with his sleight of hand and illusions. He and his "dummy" also shared the gospel with the kids through the Biblical story of David and Goliath (like it has never been told before!)
Immediately following the Award Ceremony, everyone moved across the alley to our multi purpose building for Pizza, chips, and soft drinks. There was plenty of food and great fun and fellowship. I want to thank Seeburn and Janet Watts (owners of Giovanni's of Westmoreland) for the 40 Pizzas they provided for us at their cost! We can't say thanks enough to them and to the wonderful members of WBC who served, and pumped up the basketballs for each of the players.
Our first Upward season is now history. Kids have had fun and learned a lot about basketball, teamwork, sportsmanship, and our Lord, Jesus Christ. Long time church member, Butch Cotton, was quoted as saying, "I've been a member here for a long time, and this is the best ministry I have seen yet." That sentiment was echoed by a number of folks. I am so thankful that we were able to do Upward Basketball and Cheerleading this winter.
Registration is now open for our Spring Upward Soccer League.
May God bless it and use it for His glory!
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