A free program created by the Illinois FC soccer organization is geared toward presenting opportunities for young athletes with disabilities.
Now in its ninth year, the TOPSoccer program helps special needs youth enjoy and play soccer. “Our goal is to enable young athletes with disabilities to become valued and successful members of the U.S. Youth Soccer family,” a program spokesperson said.
It is open to any child age 7-18 with a cognitive or physical disability. TOPSoccer is conducted by Illinois FC’s professional coaching staff and volunteers.
The season, which consists of six one-hour sessions at Soccer Planet in Champaign, has already begun. Space is limited to 20 players but slots remain open for the remainder of the spring season. The current sessions are Sunday evenings from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Players receive a free Illinois FC TOPSoccer t-shirt. Online registration is required, along with completed waiver forms, before the player’s initial session.