A Heart of Gold
A Young Teen Starts a Life Changing TOPSoccer Program
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hen Madeline Howard was 13, she went with a friend, and her friend’s brother who has Down syndrome, to a soccer event at which he was able to participate. Madeline had been to the Special Olympics and other similar events before but there was something about the opportunity for those with disabilities to be able to enjoy soccer that struck a chord in Madeline’s heart. Madeline, and her older sister Carolann, both soccer players, decided that they too wanted to do something that would build confidence for children with disabilities. So they reached out to the Haverford Soccer Club and presented a proposal to start a TOPSoccer program in the area. Now, four years later, 17-year-old Madeline is still leading the program and more committed to it than ever. US Youth Soccer TOPSoccer is a community-based training and team placement program for young athletes with disabilities, organized by youth soccer association volunteers. The program is designed to bring the opportunity of learning and playing soccer to any boy or girl who has a mental or physical disability. Madeline currently has twelve kids in her program and won’t reject anyone. She strives to pair one volunteer per child. She set up a buddy system so that volunteers who come out to the Brookline School Field in Havertown, Pa., on Sundays to work with a specific
child can keep them focused and give them constant support. The children range in age from 7 to 19 with disabilities including severe autism and Cerebral Palsy. “It’s really important for these kids to have a connection with someone,” said Madeline. “If they have a personal connection with each of the people they see then it’s more meaningful. It’s important for them to have an opportunity that they wouldn’t normally have without this team.” For a parent, having a program like TOPSoccer and volunteers like Madeline opens up new avenues for their child’s development and enjoyment of life. “TOPSoccer gives the parent the ability to see their children grow in something that you would have taken for granted,” said Jim McCoy whose son, Matt, 12, has Cerebral Palsy. “You watch the kids play and function in a sport that not only brings enjoyment to your child but to the parent as well.” “We didn’t have any programs like this when we were growing up,” said Terri Kirlin whose daughter, Kristy, 16, suffers from a chromosome abnormality. “Madeline started this league for kids to enjoy. Society changes by the things that people do and
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what Madeline does makes a huge difference.” A huge difference is exactly what TOPSoccer has made in Madeline’s life. So much so that she will remain involved with the team no matter where she goes to college. “When I first started this team, I didn’t think it would affect me the way that it has,” said Madeline. “I know who I am because of this team. These kids are so inspiring and so amazing. I wouldn’t give up coaching this team for the world.” “Madeline brings energy to the program, and she gives these kids self-confidence,” said McCoy. “She is a young lady beyond her years.” “Madeline’s social life often comes second, as she will turn down social opportunities if it interferes with her team schedule,” said Peter Schechner of the Haverford Soccer Club. “I don’t give anything up,” said Madeline. “I benefit from being in TOPSoccer. “I think it is worth it.” TL For more information on how you can become a volunteer with a TOPSoccer Program near you visit the Programs site at www.EPYSA.org.