“How to be a 'Buddy' to a VIP Soccer Player with Special Needs
Frequently Asked Questions -  FAQ

1.    What is a VIP Soccer Buddy?
A VIP Soccer Buddy is a volunteer who helps children and young adults with special needs or disabilities practice and play AYSO VIP Soccer.  They assist players by guiding or helping them with practice drills, soccer fundamentals and play while also helping the VIP coach in practice and games.

2.    Do I have to have soccer experience to be a VIP buddy?
No. No soccer skills are required to be a buddy.  Just a positive attitude and willingness to help others.

3.    How much time per week will I have to commit to be a VIP buddy?
Buddies are asked to volunteer one day a week for a one-hour practices and a one-hour for games every Saturday morning during the fall season.  The season begins in late August with practice and starts in early September.  It ends in late November with our “Celebrating VIP Soccer Day” picnic.

4.    Do I receive community service credits or hours for volunteering?
Yes.  All VIP Buddies receive a certificate validating your volunteer time at the end of the season.

5.    Where are practices and games held?
Practices and games are held at Lexington Junior High School (Orange Avenue between Bloomfield and Denni in Cypress).  NOTE:  Locations may change based on the number of VIP players registered to play in the upcoming season.  So, check our web site, www.ayso154.org and visit our VIP Soccer link to confirm times and locations.)

6.    What age group will I be working with?
There will be a wide range of players in the program, ranging from 5 years old to 40+ years old.  So, we welcome volunteers willing to work with any or all ages.   Let us know your interest and we'll try to match you up with players and practice times that best fit your schedule.

7.    What types of disabilities will I be working with?  
The AYSO Region 154 VIP Soccer program welcomes players at all levels of ability. Some have Downs Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy or live with Autism.  Others may be sight or hearing impaired.  And still others may only be able to move by using a walker or wheel chair.  Their ability to participate varies greatly, but, like you, they want to have fun and benefit greatly by interacting with one another and YOU as their VIP Buddy on the field.

8.    Do I have to have experience working with children?
No, you don't have to have experience in working with children.  Just a good attitude, some patience, and a willingness to share ideas.  

Recognizing that for some this may be your first time working with the 'special needs' community, we will host an information session before the season.  You'll get an idea of what our players face and how you can do to better connect with them to make your experience and theirs rewarding.
 
9.    How and when do I sign up to be a Region 154 VIP Soccer Buddy?
You can also visit www.eayso.org and its registration page to access a volunteer form.  Complete it ahead of time and bring a copy to the V.I.P. registration table during any of the four registration events.  It's that simple.

10.  How can I or my friends find out more about being a VIP Buddy next fall?
Visit the VIP Soccer link at Region 154's web site, www.ayso154.org to see the latest news on the V.I.P. Program at our 'Buddies Corner.”  You can also find out  about us on FaceBook at “VIP Soccer.”

We plan to have special events at local high schools soon to meet and greet students who are interested in volunteering.  So, stay tuned.