Strong Start for TOPSoccer 2012

This past Wednesday, March 14^th, Behrend Athletics hosted the 12^th annual TOPSoccer program, a highly successful program that creates the opportunity for student-athletes, primarily  both the men’s and women’s soccer teams, to interact with special needs children from the surrounding area and even teach them a bit about the game of soccer.

                This year’s volunteering effort was the highest of any year thus far. Although the gym was a bit smaller than usual, due to setup required for the evening’s men’s volleyball game, the kids had a great time. While most were reacquainted with volunteers from years past, some were paired with a new student-athlete to show them some news soccer skills or shoot hoops. This is a great program for children who otherwise may not have had the chance to have interactive, one-on-one experience learning about a sport they love.

                For the student-athletes, this is a tremendous experience to help them give back to the community that they call home for the duration of their collegiate stay.

                This year’s opening night was a half-hour shorter than normal, but the kids were treated to ice cream before they left, which capped off a strong start to the 2012 TOPSoccer program.