The AYSO (VIP) Program provides a quality soccer experience for children whose physical or mental disabilities make it
difficult to successfully participate on mainstream teams. 

VIP Program Goals

These children are Very Important Players in AYSO. We recognize that all people need to feel a sense of belonging and acceptance.
The VIP Program offers that acceptance and carries our philosophy of Everyone PlaysŪ to new heights - giving everyone a chance to play.

Children with Special Needs are estimated to comprise approximately 10% of the school-aged population and approximately 20% of the
United States population is identified as having some type of disability. The VIP Program has been structured to integrate our players into
the rest of AYSO by providing a soccer season, and using "buddies" - able bodied helpers - to assist players who need assistance, both
on and off the field. Our goals for every participating player are:

• Have fun playing soccer
• Increase positive self-esteem
• Become more physically fit
• Meet and be comfortable with new people
• Understand the fundamentals of the game
• Learn teamwork and fair play

Everyone PlaysŪ

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 children, perhaps for the first time.

Teams can have as few as three players and may be co-ed. VIP teams can be put together with players who register based on mobility or
ability. Older and younger players can also be separated onto different teams when numbers allow.

Volunteers

If you know of any children who are 14 years old or older who would like to earn community service credits for participating in the buddy
system please contact our VIP Coordinator.  Please also contact our VIP Coordinator if you know any adults that would like to volunteer
their time assisting with on-the-field coaching.