People with disabilities can participate in soccer courtesy of programs to meet the needs of special needs children and adults. Athletes with cerebral palsy, spina bifida, Down syndrome, amputations and brain injuries can take advantage of the opportunity to develop fundamental soccer skills and play games. These soccer programs encourage those with special needs to excel on the field.
TOPSoccer
The U.S. Youth Soccer Association runs the community-based TOPSoccer program, which provides training and team placement for youth athletes with disabilities. Youth Soccer Association volunteers instruct soccer clinics and organize games for boys and girls with mental or physical disabilities. TOPSoccer provides camps, unified teams of challenged and non-challenged athletes formed according to abilities. TOPSoccer works closely with organizations including the Special Olympics, United Cerebral Palsy and Shiners' Hospital.
The Soccer Ability League
The National Sports Center of the Disabled in a partnership with the United States Paralympics developed the Soccer Ability League. This program encourages soccer participation for people of any age with physical disabilities. The Soccer Ability League works with local soccer organizations to put on clinics and run games for special needs players, including stoke patients and amputees.
Special Olympics
The Special Olympics offers training and competition in soccer for people with mental disabilities. Its organizers encourage a well-structured practice, warm-up and game, as it athletes respond very well to routine. Coaches help players develop an understanding of the game of soccer. Participation in the Special Olympics starts at age 8 and there is no upper age limit.
Special Needs Soccer Association
The Special Needs Soccer Association, a nonprofit organization based in St. Louis, Missouri, gives children and young adults with special needs an opportunity to develop soccer skills at practices and games. Athletes are between the ages of 5 to 21. SPENSA encourages fun and excitement for players who otherwise may not have had the opportunity to play in a traditional youth soccer league.
