The EPIC program provides a quality soccer experience for children and adults whose physical or mental challenges prevent them from successful participation on mainstream teams. EPIC teams may include individuals with down syndrome, developmental delays, mental retardation, autism, cerebral palsy, visual impairments, or other conditions that limit mobility, strength, and/or comprehension.

EVERYONE PLAYS!

All individuals with challenges are welcome, starting at age four. Although the typical AYSO program ends at age 18, for EPIC players playing on teams there are no upper age limits. The focus is on participation and fun! EPIC coaches are flexible and positive, finding a way for all players to participate as fully as they are able. If you thought your son or daughter couldn't play soccer, think again! With EPIC soccer, dreams become realities.

EVERYONE BENEFITS!

Through participation in EPIC soccer, individuals with disabilities experience the thrill of belonging to a team, wearing uniforms, and making new friends. They learn new skills and develop physical fitness while enjoying the game of soccer. EPIC benefits all participants, not just the players! Non-disabled players assist EPIC players on the field as "buddies". They learn to understand and appreciate people with special needs. For parents who thought they would never see their children having fun while playing a sport, EPIC gives them joy and hope.

What is AYSO EPIC?

The mission of the AYSO EPIC Program is to provide a quality soccer experience for individuals whose physical or mental disabilities make it difficult for them to successfully participate on mainstream soccer teams. Successful participation is defined by the player’s enjoyment and the safety of all team members.

What is a EPIC Buddy?

EPIC Buddies assist during the games in which players learn soccer while meeting new friends, having fun and increasing skills and self-esteem. Players and their families, along with our volunteers, enjoy the complete AYSO experience – team uniforms, scoring goals, cheering from the sidelines, and beyond! The vision of the AYSO EPIC Program is to create teams in every AYSO Region to maximize opportunities for EPIC player participation.

What are the EPIC Goals and Objectives?

Goal: Players will have fun playing soccer

Objectives:

• To introduce all skills by using games
• To allow players to set the pace
• To relax and be flexible
• To keep everything positive

Goal: Players will understand the fundamentals of the game

Objectives:

• To give each player plenty of opportunities to play the ball
• To build skills on the success of previously learned skills
• To involve family members in learning soccer fundamentals

Goals: Players will learn teamwork and fair play

Objectives:

• To build teamwork and fair play into practice sessions
• To encourage team identity by wearing uniforms and participating in team get-togethers
• To reward positive effort when teamwork and fair play are observed

Goal: Players will increase their self-esteem

Objectives:

• To establish individual, realistic goals with players
• To encourage effort toward goals, no matter how small
• To recognize player effort and achievement

Goal: Players will become more physically fit

Objectives:

• To encourage maximum participation in physical movement for each player at his or her level
• To facilitate player participation in off-season physical activities or sports

Goal: Players will meet and be comfortable with new people

Objectives:

• To encourage parents to play a supportive, not active, role during games
• To facilitate the development of positive player relationships with buddies and other volunteers
• To utilize community helpers