Everyone Plays In our Community (EPIC)
One of AYSO’s core philosophies is “Everyone Plays’” and EPIC supports that philosophy by providing a program designed to get the kiddos onto the fields and support them through that process.
The EPIC program provides a great soccer experience for children and adults whose physical or mental disabilities make it difficult to participate on mainstream teams. EPIC teams can include individuals who are blind or visually impaired, or have limited mobility, autism, down syndrome or cerebral palsy. The program is run entirely by volunteers.
EPIC works by creating teams made up of EPIC players and “buddies” for those that need help on the field. The teams are organized by ability, size, or gender according to the needs of the Region and players. Fields and game times accommodate the players. Jerseys, banners and standard soccer gear are part of the experience.
Our hope is that EPIC will help the athletes gain confidence, learn teamwork and the rules of the game, and enjoy physical exercise. Flexibility is a key component to administering the program. Overall, the EPIC experience is meant to be fun, fair and safe for the athletes. Team sports are one of the defining experiences of childhood. Weekday practices, Saturdays on the field, winning, losing, and the excitement of play are all part of growing up. EPIC makes it possible for children with disabilities to enjoy these rites of passage.
Program Structure and Information
Fall 2023 registration includes the following:
8 games
Practice 1x a week
Uniform jersey, shorts, and socks
Basic picture package
Player insurance
Soccer buddy to help them on the fields, as needed. We try to recruit youth volunteers who have a love for the game as buddies to assist your player on the field. If unable to coordinate buddies for each player, player family members may assist.
Volunteer Coaches and Team Managers are needed to make this the best possible experience for our players!
Field Information: Most practices and games are held at Maple Park.
Cost $75
Note: Players registered in Fall 2023 are eligible to play in Spring 2024 at no additional cost.
Available Discount: Sibling Discount: $5 off for each player after the first. This discount is applied during the check-out process.
| Questions? If you have questions, please email the Region 878 EPIC Director ([email protected]) |