AYSO's VIP Program provides a quality soccer experience for children - and adults - whose physical or mental disabilities make it difficult to successfully participate on mainstream teams. VIP teams may include those who are:
blind or visually impaired
amputees or conditions that impair mobility
mentally or emotionally challenged
autistic
Downs Syndrome
Cerebral Palsy
These kids are Very Important Players (VIP) in AYSO. We recognize that all children need to feel a sense of belonging and acceptance. The VIP program offers that acceptance and carries out our philosophy of Everyone Plays - giving everyone a chance to play.
PROGRAM GOALS Kids with special needs are estimated to make up approximately 10% of the school-age population. Special schools and classrooms can isolate these children so the VIP Program has been structured to integrate our special kids into the rest of AYSO.
Our goals for every participating player are:
have fun playing soccer
understand the fundamentals of the game
learn teamwork and fair play
increase positive self-esteem
become more physically fit
meet and be comfortable with new people
EVERYONE PLAYS VIP helps more than just the players. Buddies and other volunteers increase their appreciation and understanding of individuals with special needs. They find their lives greatly enriched by their involvement with their new VIP friends.
For parents thinking they would never see their children playing a sport or making new friends, VIP gives them joy and hope. They are able to relax and enjoy watching their children having fun like other kids.
