New Mexico United, the Somos Unidos Foundation, NMYSA, Rio Grande Down Syndrome Network, and Kraemer Fields have teamed up to create a TOPSoccer Program here in Albuquerque. If you are looking to be a buddy or coach please see the information below and register for time slots for training. This is a weekly program that will being March 2nd and continue every Sunday for 6 weeks. Times will be 12pm-4pm on those Sundays in the Spring. We hope you can join us in creating a positive atmosphere for these individuals!
Differentiators of TOPSoccer (In the context of Buddies and Coaches is what we will discuss in training)
BUDDIES – Each participant is assigned a volunteer, trained ‘Buddy’ who is typically a little older and neurotypical. This Buddy works with their player individually and makes sure they are safe, engaged, supported, and having fun. The player-Buddy relationship is maintained throughout the course of a season, resulting in strong interpersonal bonds and an establishment of trust and confidence that allows each player to achieve their full potential.
COACHES – TOPSoccer coaches and administrators have taken formal USYS education and certification training that assists them in successfully delivering the program. In addition to providing coaching strategies and tactics specifically for children with special needs, the training identifies the traits of the most common disabilities and provides guidance on how to modify typical soccer practice activities so everyone can be successful.
GROUPINGS – Players are grouped by ability, not just age, such that they can develop at their own pace and participate amongst others with similar abilities