
The Ordinary Christian Podcast
Episode 165: Church-Based Sports Ministry with Travis Vaughn
In this episode, Travis Vaughn from Upward Sports shares insights on how sports can be a powerful tool for community outreach and faith-based ministry. We explore the impact of youth and adult sports, the shift away from travel sports, and practical ways churches can leverage sports to reach unchurched families. Key Topics Upward Sports mission and impact Transition from youth to adult sports Community outreach through sports Challenges of travel and elite sports Marathon training and faith Church involvement in sports facilities Titles How Upward Sports Is Changing Community Outreach Using Sports to Reach Unchurched Families Sound Bites “Upward equips churches to run sports in their community” “Sports as an opportunity for intentional outreach” “Travel sports are a problem in America” Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Travis Vaughn and Upward Sports 01:13 Travis Vaughn’s Personal and Professional Background 02:37 What is Upward Sports and Its Mission 04:00 How Sports Facilitate Community and Church Outreach 05:18 The Move into Adult Sports and Upward Running 08:29 Travis Vaughn’s Running Journey and Marathon Qualification 12:20 Upward’s Shift from Travel Sports to Local Church Focus 16:22 The Business Model of Upward Sports and Its Evolution 20:16 Concerns About Travel Sports and Church Engagement 22:28 The Impact of Private Equity in Youth Sports 30:54 Community Building Through Local Sports Leagues 32:34 Most Popular Upward Sport and Facility Utilization 34:49 Travis Vaughn’s Boston Marathon Experience 35:32 Training for the Boston Marathon and Personal Fitness 40:33 Key Takeaways on Sports and Faith Ministry Upward Sports Official Website Upward Running Podcast Find a Local Upward Sports League LinkedIn Twitter






