VIP Coach Volunteers FAQ
Q: What is AYSO?
A: American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) is a nation-wide, non-profit all volunteer organization offering youth soccer. AYSO has a distinct philosophy: everyone plays, balanced teams, open registration, positive coaching, and good sportsmanship.
Q: What is the VIP Program?
A: The VIP (Very Important Player) soccer program is designed for children with special needs, whose physical or mental challenges make them unable to play successfully on mainstream teams.
Q: Who are the players?
A: Our players range in age from 4 to 18 and may have mental, physical and/or social disabilities that affect their mobility, strength, comprehension or safety. Examples of these disabilities may include Autism, Downs Syndrome, learning disabilities or Cerebral Palsy.
Q: What qualifications do coaches need?
A: Coaches need to have an emotional commitment to children with special needs and to the AYSO philosophy. While knowledge of soccer is not necessary, a basic knowledge of the game is helpful.
Q: What training is required?
A: You will need to attend a three hour training session provided by AYSO. In addition, you will need to complete a brief Safe Haven course online. AYSO offers additional ongoing training and support.
Q: Will I have any assistance?
A: A head coach or administrator will provide you with structure and goals for each week. Volunteer “buddies” (youth ages 12 and up) will assist you and each of the players. Each player’s parent or parent designee is present on the sidelines.
Q: What is the time commitment?
A: The VIP program meets approximately 8 Saturday afternoons in both the Fall and Spring soccer seasons. The time commitment is 90 minutes for each practice including set-up, snack and clean-up.
Q: What if I have to miss a Saturday?
A: Let the head coach know so that alternative arrangements can be made.
For further information, contact Ellyn Bank, VIP Volunteer Coordinator, at ellynbank@gmail.com.
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