Soccer is one of those sports where everybody wants a piece of the action. Because of the large number of players on the field, however, there is a chance that not everyone will get to touch the ball.

Upward Soccer takes a different approach to the sport. Most kids play four-on-four, a format that encourages more skill development and, of course, more fun.

“The reason it’s so good is that it allows players to touch the ball more,” said Kent Dodson, pastor of Liberty Hill Baptist Church. “Players will also get the same amount of playing time.”

The church is offering the program to boys and girls from kindergarten through eighth grade. Registration and evaluations will be held Jan. 17 and Jan. 31 in the church fellowship hall from 8:30 a.m. until 1 p.m.

The registration fee is $60 before Jan. 17, and goes up to $65 after that date. The deadline for registering is Jan. 31.

K-2 students must report to registration and evaluation between 8:30 and 10. Grades 3-5 will be evaluated from 10-11:30, and grades 6-8 will be from 11:30-1. It is mandatory that everyone attends one soccer evaluation.

Practice begins in March, and the eight-week season will last until May 9. All games will be played Saturdays at the church at times to be announced.

“Anyone can participate,” Dodson said. “Devotionals are given at each practice. It is geared toward sharing about Jesus Christ.”

For more information about Upward Soccer, contact the church at 755-1694 or by e-mail at soccer@libertyhillonline.org. The church is located on County Road 37 just off Highway 22.

—Scott Mims can be reached at scott.mims@clantonadvertiser.com.