Soccer (Football) was introduced to Special Olympics in 1979. Soccer events combine both team and individual skills competitions. Soccer is a fall sport and the training season is usually from August to November.
- Soccer Resources – rules, coaching guides, fact sheets, etc.
Details for Delaware County Program
SOPA Season: Fall (Jul – Nov)
Head Coach: Steve Brooks
What to Expect: 7v7, 5v5, skills
Training Specifics: Typically held Wednesday nights at Smedley Park. Click HERE for the current season’s information.
Competition Dates: Eastern Fall Sectional @ DeSales University & Fall Festival @ Villanova.
Equipment: It is encouraged for athletes to bring their own soccer balls, but not required. We will provide all the required equipment.
Uniform Requirements: We will provide athletes with a uniform. Athletes are responsible for shin guards. Cleats must be worn.
**IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS**
ALL athletes must have a current medical (on Special Olympics PA medical form) that runs through the end of the season. If the athlete medical is not up-to-date, athletes WILL NOT be able to participate. Unfortunately, there are no exceptions to this rule since it poses a safety risk to the entire program. An up-to-date medical must always be on file with the coach as well as sent to register.sopadelco@gmail.com. To download a copy of medical application, check our resource page. To check on medical expiration date, please go here: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1gZlc7Rupri51R_2SAgbVRI8DwrOVf2nDOvmssWKBXfo/edit#gid=0
ALL athletes must attend at least 8 trainings and participate in qualifiers to be eligible to compete in State Games (Summer Games/Fall Festival/Indoor Winter Games).
ALL athletes can participate in multiple sports during the same season, but must declare a primary sport for State Games (Summer Games/Fall Festival/Indoor Winter Games).