Frequently Asked Questions
What is TOPSoccer?
The Outreach Program for Soccer—TOPSoccer—is a community-based training and team placement program for young athletes with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, or Cerebral Palsy. The program provides meaningful learning, development, and physical
participation opportunities to young athletes through the game of soccer.
The Lehigh Valley TOPSoccer Club was founded by the parent of a child with special needs who felt that the existing soccer programs in the Lehigh Valley did not even come close to meeting the needs of aspiring players with special needs.
What are the key elements of the program?
Fun! Fun! Fun!
PARENT INVOLVEMENT
Community support – monetary and non-monetary
Volunteers willing to work with children
Oodles of patience
‘Buddy’ system: some players paired with a buddy
Placement of players primarily by ability, not age
Emphasize ability, not disability
Involve players and provide meaningful experience
Dependability of coaches
Who can enroll?
TOPSoccer is open to all children in the Lehigh Valley (Lehigh, Northampton, and Carbon counties) with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, or Cerebral Palsy.
When is it?
TOPSoccer will run in the spring from April to mid-June and in the fall from Sep to mid-November following regular soccer season schedules.
When and where is TOPSoccer played?
We play on Saturday afternoon from 3pm to 4pm at the Lehigh County Soccer fields in South Whitehall Township (youth fields 1, 2, and 3).
How do I register my child?
Please print the registration form from the website and follow instructions to register.
Spring registration starts from Jan 1
Fall registration starts from June 1
Cost is $20 per child
How can I help?
The TOPSoccer program exists for athletes to achieve, develop and compete according to their abilities. We need volunteers to make this a reality for these children. Get involved!