TOPSoccer Participation

Benefits for Athletes

• SOCIAL SKILLS - Players interact with their volunteer Buddy and other athletes in a fun, group setting and learn proper social behaviors.
• TEAMWORK - Players learn to trust someone else and rely on them through soccer activities and games.
• PERSEVERANCE - Players might encounter difficulties with activities, but they will be encouraged to keep trying and overcome challenges.
• CONFIDENCE - Players will achieve success on the field that carries over to their lives off the field in so many ways!

TOPSoccer Participants

• Athletes: A TOPSoccer player is defined as any youth player between the ages of 4 and 19 who has a disability that limits their ability to perform at the level of play in which they have chosen to participate.
• 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.
• Coaches: TOPSoccer coaches and administrators have taken formal USYS education and certification training that assists them in successfully delivering the program. In addition to providing coaching strategies 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.
• Groupings: Players are grouped by ability, not just age, such that they can develop at their own pace and participate amongst others with similar abilities.

What is the difference between a Coach volunteer and a Buddy volunteer? 

Generally there will be a 1:1 ratio with a Buddy assigned to every player in the TOPSoccer program. Buddies follow the direction and guidance of the Coach(es) assisting and encouraging the players during each activity for the duration of the session. 

Generally there is/are 1 or 2 coaches leading each session, directing Buddies with each activity and assisting otherwise as needed to ensure a successful and fun session. The RAYSA TOPSoccer Director will provide structured practice plans with modified activities that maximize participation and enjoyment of the game for every child no matter their age or disability.

NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY TO VOLUNTEER!