Challenger
A recreational sports program for children and adults with developmental and/or physical disabilities — a structured environment that's safe, fun, supportive, and inclusive.
The Challenger Soccer Program at Deptford Soccer Association (DSA) provides people with diverse abilities an opportunity to play soccer in a structured environment that is safe, fun, supportive, and inclusive. DSA is proud to offer the Challenger Program to players in our community. Athletes of all ages are welcome, there is no cost to participate, and players don't need any prior athletic ability to join in and enjoy the program.
Benefits for Participants
Social & Communication Skills
Players interact with their volunteer Buddy and other athletes in a fun group setting and learn how to respectfully enjoy soccer.
Teamwork
Players learn to trust someone else and rely on them through soccer activities and games — and enjoy a team sport!
Perseverance
Players might encounter difficulties with activities, but they're encouraged to keep trying and overcome challenges.
Confidence
Players achieve success on the field that carries over to their lives off the field in so many ways.
Physical Fitness
Players engage in physical activities — a combination of games with the soccer ball and without.
How It Works
- BUDDIES — Each participant is assigned a trained volunteer “Buddy,” typically a little older and neurotypical, who works with their player individually to keep them safe, engaged, supported, and having fun throughout the season.
- COACHES — Our coaches and administrators have taken formal USYS education and certification training for delivering the program, including guidance on modifying typical practice activities so everyone can be successful.
- GROUPINGS — Players are grouped by ability, not just age, so they can develop at their own pace among others with similar abilities.
- GAMES — Our program runs 8 weeks, played early Saturday afternoons.
- EQUIPMENT — We suggest each player have cleats and shin guards.
- UNIFORM — Each player receives a uniform with a unique number.
- COSTS — Fees to players are nominal, if any at all — we rely on local sponsors and organizations to fund the program.
We look forward to transitioning and partnering with TOPSOCCER.
For more information about the Challenger Program, get in touch and we'll help get your player started.
info@deptfordsoccer.netStill Have Questions?
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