About TOPSoccer
An outreach program for soccer fostering the physical, mental and emotional growth and development of America’s youth through the sport of soccer at all levels of age and competition
What Is TOPSoccer?
An outreach program for soccer fostering the physical, mental and emotional growth and development of America’s youth through the sport of soccer at all levels of age and competition. There are thousands of children with disabilities who need, and can be provided with, the opportunity to play soccer through the TOPSoccer program.
A Community-Based Program
The Outreach Program for Soccer (TOPSoccer) is a community-based training and team placement program for athletes with disabilities, organized by Youth Soccer Association volunteers.
Program Objective
Our goal is to enable the thousands of young athletes with disabilities to become valued and successful members of the Indiana Youth Soccer & US Youth Soccer families.
The Vision
The program is designed to bring the opportunity of learning and playing soccer to any boy or girl, age 4 and up, who has an intellectual, developmental or physical disability.
Key Features Of TOPSoccer
● Inclusive Participation: TOPSoccer is open to all individuals 4 and up with an intellectual, development or physical disability.
● Adapted for All Abilities: The program is designed to accommodate a wide range of abilities, with modifications to rules, equipment, and coaching styles to ensure that all players can participate successfully.
● Volunteers & Buddies: TOPSoccer relies heavily on the involvement of volunteers, including coaches and “buddies,” who work one-on-one with players to help them develop soccer skills and participate in team activities.
● Focus on Fun and Skill Development: The goal is not only to introduce soccer to children with disabilities, but also to encourage physical activity, social interaction, and teamwork in a fun, pressure-free environment.
Benefits of TOPSoccer
● Coordination & Motor Skills: Promotes physical fitness by helping children develop coordination and motor skills through soccer activities.
● Social Skills Development: It fosters social connections by providing an inclusive space for kids to interact with peers and build friendships.
● Confidence Building: The program also boosts self-esteem and confidence as children experience success and growth in a supportive, non-competitive environment.
● Community Service: The program is a great volunteer opportunity to serve in your local community.
TOPSoccer Program Locations & Registration
Indiana Soccer is proud of the work of the volunteers who support TOPSoccer programs in their communities. A complete list of Indiana TOPSoccer clubs can be found here.
All TOPSoccer athletes are required to register with the club where they join to play. Each club has it’s own registration forms and you will turn the forms in directly to the club. There is a specific medical form to be used for Down Syndrome athletes only. This also gets turned in to the club where your athlete is participating.
What gear will my TOPSoccer athlete need?
Every TOPSoccer athlete must have soccer shin guards on and a water bottle for each session. The athletes may wear either cleats or tennis shoes.
Avon Sports Apparel supports the Indiana Soccer TOPSoccer program. You can print this flyer to receive a discount in the store on gear.
USYS recently opened an online store to provide TOPSoccer branded spirit gear for athletes and supporters! Check it out! The store is only open is seasonal cycles, so check the dates: https://topsgear24.itemorder.com/shop/home/
How do I start a TOPSoccer program in my area or at my club?
Getting started is easy. Simply connect with Mary Schalliol, Indiana’s TOPSoccer Adminstrator at TOPSoccer@soccerindiana.org and she will give you all the guidance and support you need. Let’s start creating the change we want to see!
TOPSoccer Coaching Manual
Watch How TOPSoccer Is Impacting Communities
TOPSoccer was formed to perpetuate the Indiana Soccer & US Youth Soccer mission statement which is, in part, “to foster the physical, mental and emotional growth and development of America’s youth through the sport of soccer at all levels of age and competition