TOPSOCCER

TOPSoccer (The Outreach Program for Soccer) is a recreational sports program for children and adults with intellectual, emotional, or physical disabilities. TOPSoccer provides people with diverse abilities an opportunity to play soccer in a structured environment that is safe, fun, supportive, and inclusive.

2025 SPRING SCHEDULE

Sessions are offered in the fall and spring seasons.


See below for our 2025 TOPSoccer dates!  Sessions will be in the North (Bailey Road Park, NC) and South (Manchester Meadows Complex, SC). Registration now open!

March - 14th, 21st, 28th.

April - 4th, 25th.

May - 2nd, 9th, 16th.

At every session, the committed TOPSoccer Buddies volunteer their time to create a supportive environment where participants can have fun, learn, and receive personalized guidance during practices.

Register Now

BECOME A TOPSOCCER BUDDY

Come join the Charlotte Independence TOPSoccer team as a Buddy! This rewarding experience gives you a tremendous opportunity to help individuals with special needs. Work one on one with players and guide them through the TOPSoccer program. No soccer experience is necessary, just a desire to help in your community. We will validate hours for those needing to complete volunteer requirements.


Reach out below to Chris Bradley or Jay Lockhart to see how you can have a positive impact on someone’s life!

CONTACT

To learn more about the TOPSoccer program please reach out to your local program coordinator below.


NORTH | Chris Bradley

Mooresville, Cornelius, Davidson, Huntersville 


SOUTH | Jay Lockhart

York County

FAQS

  • Why was TOPSoccer created?

    Answer: TOPSoccer was formed to perpetuate the US Youth Soccer mission statement which is, in part, "to foster the physical, mental and emotional growth and development of America's youth through the sport of soccer at all levels of age and competition." There are thousands of children with disabilities who need and can be provided with,

    the opportunity to play soccer through the TOPSoccer program.

  • What are TOPSoccer Buddies?

    Answer: Each participant is assigned a volunteer, trained 'Buddy' who is typically a little

    older and neurotypical. This Buddy works with their player individually and makes sure they are safe, engaged, supported, and having fun. The player-buddy relationship is a key aspect of the program, resulting in strong interpersonal bonds and an establishment of trust and confidence that allows each player to achieve their full

    potential.

  • How are Coaches and Buddies selected?

    Answer: All of our TOPSoccer Coaches and Buddies are volunteers. The coaching staff and directors have all been with Charlotte Independence for many years and have participated in multiple Coaching education seminars including training in childhood development. A vast majority of our Buddies are players from our Youth Club and all volunteers go through an NCYSA vetting process.


    View Club Weather Policy

  • How are players grouped together?

    Answer: Players are grouped by ability, not just age, such that they can develop at their own pace and participate amongst others with similar abilities.

Share by: