599 EPIC DIVISION (formerly VIP - Very Important Player)
EPIC stands for Everyone Plays In our Community. EPIC teams consist of players with mental and/or physical challenges that would make it difficult to play on a mainstream soccer team. EPIC teams are non-competitive and are all about having a great time. AYSO believes that all people need opportunities to enjoy the benefit of playing sports.
The program goal is to get players on the soccer field laughing, playing, bonding, accomplishing goals and feeling like they are part of a team. We encourage parents, siblings, family and friends to watch as these players enjoy soccer. EPIC is completely flexible and tailored to the needs of each individual player. If a player wants to pick flowers on the sideline instead of playing the game, that's ok. If a player wants to stand on the field or just sit and watch, that's ok. If a player wants to do that at every single game and practice, that's ok! We don't keep score even though the players might.
In the spirit of the AYSO Core Value of Open Registration, players from San Luis Obispo and any neighboring community are welcome to join the Region 599 EPIC program. Additionally, all assistive devices are welcome on the field. All players in wheelchairs or using walkers must be accompanied by a Buddy. Wheelchairs and walkers will receive special bumpers that will allow them on the field. Soccer balls with bells inside them can be provided for blind players. If a special piece of equipment is necessary for a player to participate, we will figure out how to make it work.
REGISTRATION:
To register, create an account through this website and fill out the EPIC Player Information Form, located here: VIP Player Form
FEES:
EPIC fees are $50. If you are in need of financial assistance email [email protected]
SCHEDULE:
The EPIC season runs concurrently to the mainstream Fall season. Teams will play one game a week on Saturday at 9am on field B1 for 1 hour beginning in September - November at Damon Garcia Sports Complex in SLO with one hour practice each week. Games will be played against mainstream 12U and 14U teams.
VOLUNTEERS:
We always need Coaches, Referees and EPIC Buddies. Buddies are people who get out on the field with EPIC players and help facilitate the games. They encourage players and work towards the goal of player independence. Buddies are patient, open minded, understand soccer and have a huge heart. Buddies are required to fill out a registration form and become certified and trained. Certification and training classes are free and only take a couple of hours. Buddies must be at least 10 years old and will be chosen based on personality, ambition and maturity level.
If you see us on the field, please come and watch our game!
EPIC Administrator: Jamie Pereira E-mail:[email protected]