AYSO has just rebranded its renowned VIP Program…to EPIC, standing for Everyone Plays In our Community.

Launched in 1991, AYSO’s VIP Program was established to give players with intellectual and physical challenges, the opportunity to play and enjoy the beautiful game. The EPIC rebrand is designed to remind AYSO members and the surrounding community that AYSO is a place that everyone can play, no matter your ability. AYSO Board Member, Penney Wakefield, stated, “the refreshed brand captures our energy, belief and support of this wonderful program!”

As part of US Soccer’s Disability Organizations, AYSO intends to further establish the EPIC Program throughout the country.

The AYSO EPIC Program is designed to give children and adults a soccer experience that incorporates the six AYSO Philosophies:

Everyone Plays: In EPIC, Everyone Plays without regard for their disability.
Balanced Teams: Teams are created to maximize opportunities for player participation in age-appropriate groups for maximum player safety and experience.
Open Registration: The EPIC Program is open for all athletes with disabilities from ages 4-99. There are no try-outs, and all players are welcome.
Positive Coaching: Players’ efforts are recognized and encouraged toward achieving their personal goals. The use of EPIC Buddies may support players during the game and create an additional element of positive coaching and support.
Player Development: Players are afforded opportunities to play the ball helping them to build on previously learned skills. Family members are involved in learning soccer fundamentals to support the development of their players. Players are encouraged to participate in physical movement at their individual level to help them maximize their physicality.
Good Sportsmanship: Players learn the importance of teamwork and fair play by recognizing and celebrating the efforts of all team members. Family members are also encouraged to model good sportsmanship by cheering from the sidelines for all players.

AYSO EPIC Program provides a quality soccer experience for children whose physical or mental disabilities make it difficult to successfully participate without assistance.

EPIC players are: » Players that are Blind or visually impaired » Players with conditions that impair their mobility » Player’s with mental or emotional challenges » Players with Autism » Players with Downs Syndrome » Players with Cerebral Palsy Our goals for every participating player are » have fun playing soccer » understand the fundamentals of the game » learn teamwork and fair play » increase positive self-esteem » become more physically fit » meet and be comfortable with new people

We recognize that everyone needs to feel a sense of belonging and acceptance. The EPIC program offers that acceptance and carries the philosophy of “Everyone Plays®” to new heights – giving everyone a chance to play. Kids with various challenges are estimated to make up approximately 10% of the school-age population. Special schools and classrooms can isolate these children so the EPIC Program has been structured to integrate these children into the AYSO program by using “buddies” to help these players both on – and off – the field.

The AYSO EPIC program helps more than just the players. Buddies and other volunteers increase their appreciation and understanding of individuals with various challenges. They find their lives greatly enriched by their involvement with their new friends in the EPIC program. For parents thinking they would never see their children playing a sport or making new friends, the EPIC program gives them joy and hope. They are able to relax and enjoy watching their children having fun like other kids, perhaps for the first time.

If you have a EPIC player interested in playing or would like more information, please email [email protected].