The mission of the AYSO EPIC Program is to provide athletes with disabilities the additional support they need to fully participate in a quality soccer experience.

AYSO VIP is now EPIC

AYSO has just rebranded its renowned VIP Program to EPIC, standing for Everyone Plays In our Community.

Launched in 1991, AYSO’s VIP Program was established to give players with intellectual and physical challenges, the opportunity to play and enjoy the beautiful game. The EPIC rebrand is designed to remind AYSO members and the surrounding community that AYSO is a place that everyone can play, no matter your ability.

What is AYSO EPIC?

The mission of the AYSO EPIC Program is to provide athletes with disabilities the additional support they need to fully participate in a quality soccer experience.  The ultimate goal of the AYSO EPIC Program is to provide a holistic AYSO experience for players, families, and volunteers, from team uniforms, to playing on a team, to cheering from the sidelines, for all participants.

The Camarillo Region 68 EPIC Programs provides a quality soccer experience for children and adults – aged 4.5 years and up – with physical / developmental disabilities. EPIC teams may include, but not limited to those who may have / be Autism, cerebral palsy, down syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, and/or physically or mentally-challenged.

How to get Involved?

Registration for the fall soccer season begins in April through late May/June. The fall season begins around mid-August.

All registered players receive a soccer jersey, shorts and socks as well as a standard picture package and a trophy at the end of the season. Practices are held on Wednesday and games are on Saturday mornings.

**Important note about athletic shoes (per Pleasant Valley Recreation & Parks District):
Athletes MUST wear sneakers or turf shoes at practice (as well as shin guards). Soccer cleats may ONLY be worn during games on Saturdays.

EPIC & How it Relates to AYSO’s Six Philosophies

The AYSO EPIC Program is designed to give children and adults a soccer experience that incorporates the six AYSO Philosophies:

Everyone Plays: In EPIC, Everyone Plays without regard for their disability.

Balanced Teams: Teams are created to maximize opportunities for player participation in age-appropriate groups for maximum player safety and experience.

Open Registration: The EPIC Program is open for all athletes with disabilities from ages 4-99. There are no try-outs, and all players are welcome.

Positive Coaching: Players’ efforts are recognized and encouraged toward achieving their personal goals. The use of EPIC Buddies may support players during the game and create an additional element of positive coaching and support.

Player Development: Players are afforded opportunities to play the ball helping them to build on previously learned skills. Family members are involved in learning soccer fundamentals to support the development of their players. Players are encouraged to participate in physical movement at their individual level to help them maximize their physicality.

Good Sportsmanship: Players learn the importance of teamwork and fair play by recognizing and celebrating the efforts of all team members. Family members are also encouraged to model good sportsmanship by cheering from the sidelines for all players.

Questions?

For questions or more information about the Camarillo Region 68 EPIC Program, contact our EPIC Program Director, Jessica Dyer 805-479-0464