You can make a difference in the life of a child or adult with special needs by playing a simple game of soccer.

The Marine Park Soccer Organization, AYSO Region 266, is now recruiting volunteers to serve as coaches and buddies for a special soccer league catering to Very Important Players (VIP).

“The Marine Park Soccer/AYSO VIP Program provides a quality soccer experience for children and adults whose physical or mental disabilities make it difficult to successfully participate in mainstream ‘play’ leagues,” said Annette Walker, the organization’s regional commissioner.

Through this special soccer program, VIP players “experience the thrill of belonging to a team, wearing uniforms and making new friends,” the Marine Park Soccer Organization says. Those serving as coaches and buddies achieve a better understanding and appreciation of people with special needs, thereby offering “joy and hope.”

The Marine Park Soccer Organization is asking parents of children participating in “mainstream” soccer programs to become coaches or buddies.

“These kids are our Very Important Players,” Walker explained. “Since we recognize that all children need to feel a sense of belonging and acceptance, we ask that you share with these athletes your success in Marine Park Soccer by giving of your time.”

The organization is also reaching out to teenagers, saying, “We offer excellent letters of recommendation that colleges love to receive showing that a teen is well rounded and fully vested in helping their community.”

Opening day for the VIP program was September 20.

“We’re only asking for one hour a week, that’s Sundays at 11:30,” Walker noted. “Please sign up and help us to help them by providing these athletes who want to ‘play our game of soccer,’ with your individual assistance and encouragement.”

To register as a coach or buddy, visit http://www.aysoregion266.org or send an e-mail to mpsinformation@yahoo.com with your name, e-mail address and cell phone number.