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TOP DAWGS is a program designed to provide a soccer experience tailored to the needs of children with physical and/or developmental disabilities.
Player participation and soccer development in a safe environment are key elements of the program with the ultimate goal of improving the fitness, self-esteem and social skills of all participants. The program is administered by volunteers and is sponsored by the Rutherford Recreation Department in partnership with Rutherford FC (the Rutherford Travel Soccer Program). Rutherford residents only are eligible for the program. TOP DAWGS is modeled on the TOP Soccer program (The Outreach Program for Soccer) sponsored by US Youth Soccer. A Parents Guide on this community based program is available on their website at http://www.njyouthsoccer.com. The goal of the TOP DAWGS program is to be as inclusive as possible. However, the program may not be able to accommodate applicants in instances where the severity of a disability is beyond the capabilities of the volunteer team to manage safely. Please contact Trish Boylan (201.835.0006) or Monica Bonner (201.803.6671) if you have questions.
ADDITIONAL TOP DAWGS INFORMATION
Sessions: First session is scheduled for Saturday April 17th, 2021 and will run for 6 Saturday sessions (weather permitting).
Location and Time: Sessions will be held at Memorial Field on Tryon Football Field. Session times are from 9:00 am to 10:00 am. Parents must stay for the entire session.
Eligible Ages: Rutherford residents age 5 through 18 are eligible for the program.
Registration: Registration forms will be available at the first session. All registration forms must be completed prior to player participation.
Rutherford Recreation Exceptional Individuals Form
Medical Release Form
COVID -19 Form
Buddies: Each player will be paired up with a volunteer “buddy” who will be of high school or college age (most will be current or former Rutherford FC players).
Required Gear: Players will be provided shirts and a soccer ball. Players should wear athletic clothing and soccer shin guards are recommended.
Fee: There is no fee to participate.
Please contact the Rutherford Recreation Department (201.460.3015), Trish Boylan (pboylan25@verizon.net), or PJ Tully(pjtully1@comcast.net) if you would like more information or have any questions