In the mid 70s, an AYSO coach chartered new territory as he welcomed the organization's first player with Down Syndrome. As a result of this landmark union, soccer was introduced into the Special Olympics. Today, AYSO offers its membership the Very Important Player (VIP) program for kids with special needs. VIP boasts 75 programs and 1,500 players

AYSO Region 969 in Oklahoma started a VIP soccer program in 2001 for special needs kids. We realize that special schools and classrooms often isolate children with physical and mental challenges. We are here to help bring these children together to get plenty of exercise and to experience the joy of being part of a team!

VIP is a program designed for children with developmental or physical disabilities who want to play soccer. VIP is highly adaptive, with every effort made to ensure that all children who participate play up to their own full potential. VIP teams may include kids who are blind, deaf, amputees, mentally challenged, autistic, and kids with Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and other conditions that impair mobility, strength, and/or comprehension. Children using braces or wheelchairs are also welcome. Any child 5-18 years old whose physical or mental challenges would make it difficult to successfully participate on regular AYSO teams is welcome!

VIP players who need on-field assistance will be assigned a "buddy," an experienced player from another AYSO team who is there to help the VIP player as needed, but who may not "play the ball" for their buddy. For instance, a VIP player who is blind might have a buddy nearby who could give verbal clues as to where the ball is or other directional advice as needed. The VIP buddy system also fosters interaction between children who are often separated because of separate schools or classrooms.