Starfire Feature Partner

TOPSoccer
Written by Alice Russell, Program Coordinator for TOPSoccer

TOPSoccer, The Outreach Program for Soccer, is a program that brings children and adults with cognitive and/or physical disabilities off the sidelines and into the game. Supported by US Youth Soccer, administered by Washington Youth Soccer and organized by local community members, TOPSoccer promotes personal development in a fun soccer environment designed to improve social skills and overall fitness.

The TOPSoccer program is locally-based to support strong community relationships through the sport, while increasing the social, physical and soccer ability of the TOPSoccer player. TOPSoccer is different from typical soccer as it does not match players by age, but by their ability and skill, starting at 4 years of age and continuing throughout their lives. The unique design of our program allows players to achieve personal success though Buddies, who translate each session to the level and ability to their players, allowing them to succeed.

TOPSoccer began over 15 years ago around a kitchen table surrounded by soccer coaches, parents and community leaders. From there, TOPSoccer has grown into over 22 local communities across Washington, with 5 programs offered within District 3, a geographical subdivision of Washington Youth Soccer, including Maple Valley, Kent, Tukwila, Tacoma and Orting.

The support provided by Starfire Sports and the City of Tukwila, District 3, along with Washington Youth Soccer and local soccer associations/clubs, has enabled these programs to promote players and buddies development in a myriad of ways:

Social: TOPSoccer gets kids playing together, learning about the importance of teamwork and cooperation in a fun and safe environment.

Health: TOPSoccer helps promote the importance of physical activity, the importance of understanding and accepting your body and the importance of living a healthy lifestyle.

Enjoyment: TOPSoccer is fun! Through games and soccer activities, TOPSoccer encourages kids to have fun, learn a new sport and make new friends!

The District 3 Tukwila program trains at Starfire Indoor on Saturdays in the spring and fall. To learn more about TOPSoccer opportunities in District 3 visit: district-3.org. or contact Alice Russell: arussel78@msn.com

To learn more about Washington Youth Soccer or the TOPSoccer program visit WashingtonYouthSoccer.org.

Washington Youth Soccer is the largest youth soccer organization in Washington. Our organization represents over 128,000 players (ages 4-19) and their families, 15,000 coaches on 12,000 teams and 6,500 referees in the state of Washington.

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