But it can also be modified to accommodate the special needs of the players. Participants are placed on teams based on their needs and abilities, not age. The emphasis is on developing positive self-concepts and having fun, rather than on winning or losing. The results are dramatic. Parents of disabled children are amazed at the positive impact playing soccer has on their child's self-esteem.
Many children also seem to improve their motor skills.
Most significantly, as a result of playing TOPSoccer, these children for the first time enjoy the camaraderie of team sports and hear the cheers from proud parents, sisters and brothers on the sidelines. It can indeed be a life-changing experience. A key component of many TOPSoccer programs is to pair up a young player with a disabled child to assist him or her in learning and playing the game. It's not uncommon for these young volunteers to begin performing better in school and to look forward to their TOPSoccer activities as much as their regular soccer games. If you would like to learn more about the TOPSoccer program in your community or how you can become a TOPSoccer volunteer, visit the US Youth Soccer Association homepage.