Aging court poses safety concerns for young ballers in Bethlehem. Community support sought.

The Upward Youth League , a popular Bethlehem-area youth basketball league hosted by First Baptist Church in the city , is raising funds to repair its deteriorating gym floor. Upward is aimed at providing children of all abilities with the opportunity to play basketball in a faith-based environment, according to co-director Paul Kocher. The program serves kids from kindergarten through eighth grade, focusing on developing basketball skills while promoting values like respect, teamwork and character.

Games are structured to give all players equal playing time, with teams divided into smaller groups to allow for more participation..