Tipton says that these and
is continuing to ensure that the game is fun
when compared to the huge
programs like TOPSoccer. The acronym stands
other updates were small
and rewarding for all players by building new
advantages that the tournament
for “The Opportunity to Play Soccer” and
could have for the young players
provides children with disabilities with a chance
involved. “For a lot of them, making
to take part in the sport. While winning might
one regional tournament could be the
be on the minds of many of the teams, Tipton
pinnacle of their career.” He is also excited about
is happy that the tournament and the Edmond
US Youth Soccer registers more than 3 million kids annually. the potential influence that the week-long event could have on the
players’ collegiate career as well. “All the top college coaches are going to be there. It’s a big deal to be noticed.”
Jimmy Hampton is one coach that knows the importance of a
win at the Regional Championships. Hampton is a college coach for the men’s and women’s programs at The University of Science and
Arts of Oklahoma in Chickasha, Oklahoma, and he’s currently getting three teams in shape for a potential win at the State Cup and hopefully a chance at Regionals. “We’re training three to four days a week,” says Hampton. He is confident that all three of his
teams can advance to Regionals and hopes that his players are able to fully grasp the importance of the tournament. “I think it’s hard for kids to understand it until they get there. If they get there, I think it would just mean the world to them.”
Hampton sees the upcoming championships as a potential
victory for the entire community. “They get the opportunity to see some of the best players in the country right in their backyard.” There’s no bigger win than that.
The Edmond Soccer Club will definitely be one of the big
winners once the final whistle is blown. They’ve been preparing for the tournament for over two years and have been providing an outlet through soccer for young players since 1978. The club
26
Outlook June 2013
Soccer Club are giving kids the opportunity to compete while also helping the sport expand.
“I want to continue to see it grow. I can appreciate good footwork and all the things that soccer can bring to an athlete.”