Frequently Asked Questions

What is TOPSoccer?
US Youth Soccer TOPSoccer (The Outreach Program for Soccer) is a recreational sports program for children and adults with intellectual, emotional, or physical disabilities offered only through local US Youth Soccer-affiliated soccer clubs. TOPSoccer provides people with diverse abilities an opportunity to play soccer in a structured environment that is safe, fun, supportive, and inclusive.

What ages can participate?
Boys & Girls 5-14 years old

When is the program?
TOPSoccer is offered every Fall and Spring. Details will be listed on our TOPSoccer page.

Who is in charge of the program?
TOPSoccer coaches and administrators with education and certification training that assist in successfully delivering the program. In addition to providing soccer exercises and tactics specifically for children with special needs, the training identifies the traits of the most common disabilities and provides guidance on how to modify typical soccer practice activities so everyone can be successful.

What are Buddies?
Buddies: Each participant is assigned a volunteer, trained ‘Buddy’. This Buddy works with their player individually and makes sure they are safe, engaged, supported, and having fun. The player-Buddy relationship is maintained throughout the course of a season, resulting in strong interpersonal bonds and an establishment of trust and confidence that allows each player to achieve their full potential.

How do I become a volunteer?
Buddies are paired up with athletes of varying abilities and experiences with soccer, and each week help lead the athletes through fun activities and games. TOPSoccer is an extremely rewarding program for athletes, buddies, and organizers. If you would like to volunteer or learn more start by submitting a volunteer application under "registration". Buddies must be able to commit to the majority of sessions in a season and must attend program orientation.

Contact our Director of Recreation and Youth Player Development, Gabi Wlassits, for more information.