Meredith Waropay, NJ Youth Soccer
New Jersey Youth Soccer recently hosted a TOPSoccer Jamboree at the RWJBarnabas Health Field of Dreams in collaboration with RWJBarnabas Health and Toms River FC. The purpose of the event, and the overall goal of TOPSoccer, is to give players with disabilities an opportunity to develop physical fitness, technical skills, courage and self-esteem through the game of soccer.
The turnout was great for the TOPSoccer Jamboree, which consisted of TOPSoccer training for players, along with a gathering for volunteer buddies and coaches who helped with activities. Volunteers first gathered in the morning to learn how to contribute to TOPSoccer training in their own organization before the youth player participants joined in the afternoon for a celebration full of soccer activities.
“It was a privilege to host a NJYS TOPSoccer Jamboree at the RWJBarnabas Health Field of Dreams, a one-of-a-kind, inclusive recreational complex created for the disability community,” said Justin Edelman, Senior Vice President Corporate Partnerships, RWJBarnabas Health. “This program aligns perfectly with our commitment to inclusion and supporting community-based initiatives, and it was incredibly rewarding to work with NJ Youth Soccer and Toms River FC at such a meaningful event.”
TOPSoccer emphasizes development and training over competition, helping athletes to develop at their own pace and participate based on their individual abilities. The Toms River FC TOPSoccer Program is spearheaded by Vincent Guardino and Donna King, and it is one of the largest in the state.
“The two-hour session on a beautiful spring afternoon was well attended by players, buddies and coaches,” said Lou Mignone, NJYS TOPSoccer Director. “Participants enjoyed a variety of safe, fun and engaging activities that emphasized skill building, positive team dynamics and exercise wellness. Festive music was also part of the exciting experience. The morning of the event featured free in-person TOPSoccer Coach and Buddy Courses, and the evening prior offered the same free training within a virtual format.”
The event featured a special guest in Pete Bussa, who is a US Youth Soccer East Region TOPSoccer Committee Member.
“Lou ran an awesome practice. He had all the players involved all the time, and the Buddies were equally involved with their players,” said Bussa. “I especially liked having the music playing. Every now and again, I would catch players throw in a little dance move as they played. Vinnie and Toms River FC could not have been a more gracious host. The whole day was the essence of what TOPSoccer is all about. It is not all about soccer, but we can do it through soccer. I tell new coaches all the time, ‘if we send these kids home with rosy cheeks and a smile on their face, it has been a great day!’”
This NJYS TOPSoccer Jamboree was made possible with support and donations from RWJBarnabas Health, Hudl, Wilson Trophy and Jersey Mike’s, along with additional giveaways from the sponsors of the Toms River FC TOPSoccer Program.
To become a recognized NJYS TOPSoccer Program, a minimum of five players with disabilities must be registered. Also, a minimum of one TOPSoccer Coach needs to complete a four-hour TOPSoccer Coach Course, and at least one TOPSoccer Buddy needs to successfully complete a two-hour TOPSoccer Buddy Course. These courses help train Buddies and Coaches on how to make TOPSoccer Programs a fun, safe and inclusive experience. Emphasis is placed on effective communication strategies, problem-solving and successfully guiding players.
If you are interested in starting a TOPSoccer Program at your club or community organization, we encourage you to contact Coach Lou Mignone at lou@njyouthsoccer.com.