Creating more opportunities for athletes with disabilities to play, compete, connect and belong through soccer.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. ― Cal North Soccer and its TOPSoccer program are proud to announce a new partnership with Special Olympics Northern California to create expanded opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities and athletes with disabilities to experience, participate in and enjoy the game of soccer.
Together, the organizations are working to build a more inclusive soccer community — one where every athlete has an opportunity to step onto the field, develop their skills, build friendships and experience the joy of the game.
Soccer has the power to bring people together, and this collaboration is designed to help ensure that the game is accessible to athletes of all abilities.
Through the partnership, Cal North TOPSoccer and Special Olympics Northern California will work collaboratively to connect athletes, families, coaches and communities with inclusive soccer opportunities throughout Northern California.
Cal North TOPSoccer has long been dedicated to providing soccer opportunities for athletes with disabilities, creating an environment where players can participate in the game in a supportive, positive and inclusive setting.
Special Olympics Northern California shares that commitment through its mission of providing year-round sports training and athletic competition for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
By bringing these efforts together, the organizations can create greater awareness, expand participation and help more athletes discover soccer.
This is about more than playing a game. It's about creating belonging. It's about building confidence. It's about giving families a place to connect.
"Through the power of play, we unite people with and without intellectual disabilities to create a more connected community," said Will Averbuck, Sports Manager of Special Olympics Northern California. "Our programs transform athletes into leaders, and promote acceptance, unity, and respect throughout Northern California."
And it's about making sure that when a player wants to play soccer, there is a place for them on the field.
The partnership will focus on creating pathways for athletes to participate in soccer through:
- Inclusive soccer programming and events
- Opportunities for athletes and families to connect with the soccer community
- Skill development and athletic opportunities
- Education and collaboration for coaches and volunteers
- Greater access to soccer environments throughout Northern California
- Community events that celebrate athletes of all abilities
- Connecting the Special Olympics and soccer communities through the world's game
Cal North and Special Olympics Northern California believe that inclusion shouldn't be an afterthought — it should be part of the foundation of the game.
"At Cal North, we support every athlete and strive to bring the joy, confidence, friendship and sense of belonging that comes from being part of a team. Our TOPSoccer program is about creating those opportunities for athletes with special needs and partnering with Special Olympics Northern California allows us to take that commitment even further," said Teresa Talbot, Cal North TOPSoccer Program Coordinator. "Together, we can create more opportunities to expand their skills, experiences, and communities. We will create meaningful pathways for athletes of all abilities to participate in the game we love. This partnership is about more than soccer — it’s about making sure everyone has a place on the field.
Whether an athlete is stepping onto a soccer field for the first time, developing their skills, competing in an organized event or simply looking for a place to belong, this partnership is about opening the door.
Because soccer isn't just about the score. It's about the people you meet. The teammates beside you. The confidence you build. The moments you share.
And the feeling of being part of something bigger.
Cal North TOPSoccer and Special Olympics Northern California are proud to unite around a shared belief: There is a place for every athlete in the game.
Together, we look forward to creating more opportunities, removing barriers and welcoming more athletes with disabilities into the soccer community across Northern California.
Here are some helpful resources:
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About Special Olympics Northern California
Special Olympics Northern California provides free year-round programs for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. We offer training and competitions in 11 sports, inclusive schools programs, health & wellness activities, leadership training and more!
About Cal North Youth Soccer Association
Cal North is the original youth soccer organization in Northern California, who has served generations of players, coaches, leagues, and clubs with storied histories. Cal North is a member of a much larger soccer community, and as a member, you are also a member of this world community. Players register to play with one of the more than 200 clubs or leagues formed by Cal North. Through affiliation, our leagues and clubs are also members of US Youth Soccer, US Soccer, and US Futsal. US Soccer, along with over 197 other national soccer organizations, are members of FIFA, the Federation Internationale de Football Association. FIFA serves as the international governing body for soccer and US Soccer has been a member since 1913. Together, local, national and international organizations form a family of support for the young soccer players of Cal North.
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