The pilot program included 15 players and was assisted by “Buddies” from DC Soccer Club’s High School Travel Program.

US Youth Soccer TOPSoccer is a community-based training program for all athletes with intellectual, emotional, and or physical disabilities. The program strives to provide soccer opportunities for players of all ages to develop at their own pace in a safe, fun, and supportive/inclusive environment. Our goal is to enable young athletes with disabilities to become successful members of the DC Soccer Club and US Youth Soccer families.

DC Soccer Club began this program in May and is working in close collaboration with Skills on the Hill, a pediatric therapy clinic in the DMV area, to run this program. 

“We thought a city as big as DC really needed a TOPSoccer Program,” said Nick Papadis, who oversees the program. “In a city of this size, we strive to serve all communities and saw a real gap in the offering of programs for players who might not be comfortable in a traditional rec or travel soccer environment”

“We heard a lot of positive feedback following our first season and look forward to being back out with our TOPSoccer players and Buddies this Fall!”

Parents of players in the program particularly liked the one-on-one interaction with Buddies. One parent stated “having a dedicated support person with my son made all the difference.  She helped to keep him engaged and then provided breaks when he needed it.”

The volunteer component is a key aspect of the program. As we prepare for the Fall season, we are looking for both participants and older players willing to volunteer as TOPS Buddies.

For the upcoming fall season, the TOPSoccer Program will run for six weeks on Sundays from 10am-10:45am and 12:00pm-12:45pm at Hearst Recreation Center and Harry Thomas Rec Center. The program will run from September 26th through October 31st. Equipment is provided, however, players should bring their own soccer ball and wear appropriate soccer attire.

The TOPSoccer Program would not be possible without the help of our volunteers. If you would like to be a buddy, you can sign up to volunteer here: https://stoddert.sportngin.com/register/form/757764594

Players can register for the Fall TOPSoccer program here: https://stoddert.sportngin.com/register/form/115889593

If you have any questions, please contact Nick Papadis at nick@dcsoccerclub.org