Morris United / Delbarton topsoccer

TOPSoccer is a national community-based soccer training program for youth athletes with intellectual, emotional and/or physical disabilities.  The program is designed to bring the opportunity of learning and playing soccer to any boy or girl who has a mental or physical disability, which makes it difficult for them to play with other programs.  The emphasis of the program is on development, training and meaningful participation rather than competition.  

As a Campus Ministry activity,  Delbarton Soccer organizes and runs the Morris United TOPSoccer program.   The program is established for local players who are either physically and/or mentally challenged and aged 5-20 years old.  The goal of the program is to provide these athletes an opportunity to develop their physical fitness, technical and motor skills, courage and self-esteem through the joy and excitement of playing soccer.

The Morris United / Delbarton TOPSoccer program runs in the Spring and Fall of each calendar year.  Spring sessions typically begin in mid-April and run for 6-8 weeks, and Fall sessions typically begin in early September and also run for 6-8 weeks.   All sessions are held on Fridays from 6-7 PM at the Ryan Soccer Field on the Delbarton campus.  The program is free for all participants, but a parent or a guardian is required to be on site during the session.   

The Morris United / Delbarton TOPSoccer program is volunteer based with players being coached by TOPSoccer Coaches and TOPSoccer Buddies. 

• TOPSoccer Coaches:  Each TOPSoccer coach is a volunteer who has been  specifically trained to work with special needs children.   To become a  TOPSoccer coach,  volunteers are required to participate in a NJYSA  coach's training program, complete a background check, and complete concussion and US Center for SAFESPORT training. 

• TOPSoccer Buddies:  Each  player has a TOPSoccer Buddy assigned to provide 1:1 guidance and  assistance with practice activities and games. TOPSoccer Buddies  consist primarily of high school-aged students who are willing to commit to attend for the full scheduled season.  All buddies are required to attend a one day  training program in order to volunteer.

To learn more about becoming a TOPSoccer coach or buddy, please contact Morris United at MUSCTOPSoccer@gmail.com.