What is the EPIC (Everyone Plays In our Communities) Program?
The AYSO EPIC Program provides a quality soccer experience for children whose physical or mental abilities make it difficult to successfully participate on mainstream teams. We recognize that all people need to feel a sense of belonging and acceptance. The EPIC Program offers that acceptance and carries the philosophy "Everyone Plays In our Communities" - giving everyone a chance to play.
The EPIC Program has been structured to integrate our players into the rest of AYSO by providing a soccer season and in some cases, using “Buddies” - able bodied helpers - to assist the players who need assistance both on and off the field. Our goals for every participating player are:
- Have fun with soccer
- Understand the fundamentals of the game
- Learn teamwork and sportsmanship
- Increase positive self-esteem
- Become more physically fit
- Meet and be comfortable with new people
Who can participate?
Any child whose physical or mental abilities make it difficult to successfully participate on a mainstream team. EPIC teams may include:
- Blind or visually impaired
- Amputees or with conditions that impair mobility
- Mentally or emotionally challenged
- Autism
- Down Syndrome
- Cerebral Palsy
Schedule?
The season runs from Early September to mid November and is concurrent with the Fall Regular Season.Games are held on Saturday mornings for about 1 hour. Once the time is set, games will be at the same time each week.
Cost?
The cost for EPIC players in Region 254 will be $25 for the season. Players receive a uniform, pictures and an end-of-season trophy.
Registration?
Players register online starting in March for the upcoming fall season. Please be sure to select EPIC when registering your player.