The following news release was submitted by Andover Soccer Association. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of Andover News.
Andover Soccer Association (ASA) is teaming up with North Reading Youth Soccer (NRYS) to offer ASA’s inaugural TOPSoccer Program for the 2024 Spring Season. NRYS is a leader in the TOPSoccer community, entering their 10th year of the program. By combining forces, we can ensure access for players from the surrounding area. All players and buddies will register through NRYS regardless of hometown
What is TOPSoccer?
TOPSoccer is devoted to providing a constructive and accommodating soccer experience for children who would like to access sports in a way that is comfortable for them. TOPSoccer is for children whose experiences include physical, cognitive, or other attributes that prevent them from participating in traditional town soccer programs. It provides opportunities for fun, fitness, and building self-esteem, offering athletes with unique needs the opportunity to grow, develop, and build friendships through soccer.
· Modifications are made to the skills and games to allow full participation and enjoyment for each child.
· One-on-one assistance is provided by “Buddies” who are high school students who come alongside players to provide camaraderie and support in the players’ participation.
· Coaches that know how to create a meaningful experience for your child.
· It offers a relaxed, recreational, and fun approach to the game.
Join Us!
· If your child has a challenge that prevents involvement on traditional town soccer teams.
· If you and your child want a safe environment where they can enjoy the game of soccer.
· Athletes ages 4 through 19 years old welcome!
Spring 2024 Player Details:
· The season starts on Sunday, April 7th.
· We will NOT meet on May 12th and May 27th.
· Maguire Field in North Reading, 11 am to 12 pm.
· Please arrive early, we recommend 10:50 AM to allow time to check in and warm up.
· Registration is $25 per player, including a shirt and a soccer ball for new players.
· We will end the season on Sunday, June 2nd with a celebration including a trophy or medal.
For Further Information, Questions, and Registration:
· Registration: Visit nrys.org >> Programs>>TOPSoccer
· More information: Email us at: TOPS@nrys.org OR Community@andoversoccer.org
Volunteers Needed: We are looking for TOPS Buddies & Coaches
What does it take to be a Buddy?
· Community: TOPS invites all current 9-12 graders to become Buddies. Over the years we have had TOPSoccer, over 100 Buddies have volunteered from many different high schools in the region including North Reading High School, Reading High School, Pingree School, and Austin Prep! Buddies also earn community service hours for their work in the program.
· Commitment: Every volunteer must commit to attending at least 5 of the 8 weeks of the program. Players thrive with a dedicated Buddy. If you can’t commit that is okay too! Join the program as a Floater and be assigned as a backup Buddy and join in on field support.
· Compassion: If you want to be a part of an incredible experience teaching soccer to an extraordinary group of young people… if you want to make memories that you, your player, and their parents won’t soon forget…if you want to enjoy a satisfying sense of true accomplishment: then you’re ready to be a Buddy!
Spring 2024 Buddy Details:
- Sessions take place on Sundays from 10:15 to 12:15 at Maguire Field, North Reading.
- The Spring season runs from April 7th – June 2nd. (There will be no practice on May 12th and May 26th.)
- Prior soccer experience is desirable, but not necessary. New Buddies will be guided and supported.
ARE YOU IN? Here’s what to do next:
- Register! Visit nrys.org > Select TOPS from the column to the left of the photos and see the BUDDY registration link (google form) in the second box.
· Any questions, please reach out to TOPS@nrys.org or Community@andoversoccer.org