TOPSoccer Program in California

In the vibrant city of Pleasanton, California, on the west side of the San Francisco Bay, Ballistic United Soccer Club (BUSC) stands out as a beacon of inclusivity and community engagement. Among its many initiatives, the club’s TOPSoccer Program (The Outreach Program for Soccer) shines brightly, offering children with disabilities an opportunity to experience the joy of soccer in a supportive and inclusive environment. 

Organization

Ballistic United Soccer Club

Best Practice Alignment: Best Practice #19 SERVICE: The organization encourages adult and athlete volunteer participation to positively impact the community.

Background

BUSC, a non-profit youth sports club, serves approximately 1600 male youth players from Pleasanton and surrounding communities. Affiliated with several soccer leagues including, Cal North, Nor Cal Premier League, and MLS Next, the club has a dedicated Board of Directors, ensuring effective governance and strategic direction. With 30 professional coaching staff, BUSC maintains high standards in player development across competitive and elite teams.

TOPSoccer: A Commitment to Inclusion

Under the visionary leadership of BUSC President Scott McMillin, the club made a resolute commitment to reduce barriers to participation for all children in the community. Enhancing and expanding the TOPSoccer program became a primary goal, with ongoing efforts to grow its impact into 2024.

Developing Sports Skills, Fostering Community

Located at Muirwood Community Park, the BUSC TOPSoccer program, now in its second year, welcomes 25 participants aged 6-18. The program runs for six weeks during Spring, Summer, and Fall seasons, offering one hour per week of structured soccer activities. The curriculum focuses on developing fundamental ball and movement skills, introducing challenges, and fostering teamwork through small-group activities and friendly competitions. At the end of each season, participants gather for an awards ceremony, where they receive medals in recognition of their efforts and achievements.

Volunteer Buddies: The Heart of the Program

Central to the success of the TOPSoccer program are the dedicated volunteer soccer buddies. Recruited from within the BUSC membership, the Pleasanton Rage and local mother-daughter and mother-son charities, these volunteers provide invaluable support and companionship to the participants. Led by professional educators Dane Shaffar and Lauren Candia, the team ensures that each player has a buddy close in age, fostering meaningful connections and enhancing the overall experience.

Supporting the Cause: Community Partnerships

Grateful for the generous support of Pleasanton Orthodontics, participants and volunteers are provided with bright colored branded soccer jerseys, fostering a sense of belonging and pride. Additionally, recurring grants from US Youth Soccer help fund special equipment such as larger-sized soccer balls and auditory balls with bells, ensuring inclusivity for all. To encourage commitment, participants contribute a nominal fee per season, reinforcing their dedication to the program.

Challenges and Triumphs: A Journey of Growth

Scott McMillin candidly acknowledges the challenges faced in recruiting players and securing sustainable staffing. Despite initial hurdles, the program’s success is evident through various metrics, including increased participation, positive feedback from parents, and growing community goodwill. Fundraising efforts have also been bolstered by the feel-good story surrounding the TOPSoccer program, shining a positive spotlight on the club’s commitment to inclusivity.

A Legacy of Excellence

While TOPSoccer stands as a shining example of BUSC’s commitment to inclusion, the club’s dedication to excellence extends far beyond.  As with most youth sports clubs, best practice examples are not restricted to a single example.  Other initiatives worthy of emulation are:

• “Get on the Bus” – an initiative to provide transportation, coaching, game play and education and support to Title I schools.
• Leadership Program – BUSC offers a unique leadership program for players on U12-U19 teams who demonstrate exemplary character.  Boys attend three leadership workshops with Brady Taylor, Technical Director, and graduates of the program are invited to serve on a Captains round table. 
• College Program – the club is also proud of its efforts to support players seeking to attend college with the college advisory program led by Jennifer Thomas. 
• Fully Funded Program – the club provides a full funded professionally coached program called ‘Ballistic Futures’ for players 4-5 years old.  Fremont Bank is the title sponsor.

Written by: David Newbery, Director, Institute of Youth Sports Leaders

Useful Links

Ballistic United Soccer Club Website

TopSoccer Website

Leaders mentioned in the article:

• Scott McMillin
• Dane Shaffar
• Lauren Candia

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