New Jersey Youth Soccer hosted a webinar presented by RWJBarnabas Health on July 10 to engage its member TOPSoccer programs.
The state association used this opportunity to communicate about Return to Play guidelines, share best practices and highlight NJYS member benefits, according to a statement by NJ Youth Soccer.
The webinar was led by Carol Cordiner, NJYS TOPSoccer chair; Evan Dabby, NJYS executive director; Rick Meana, NJYS director of coaching; Lou Mignone, NJYS Coaching Schools instructor; and Auke Wiersma, NJYS Coaching School instructor, former US Youth Soccer Region 1 TOPSoccer chair.
“NJYS TOPSoccer clubs managing their programs during the COVID-19 pandemic are confronting new and unique operational challenges,” Meana said in the statement. “This webinar provided some much-needed guidance, tips and best practices for the administrators.”
More than 30 individuals participated, representing many of the member TOPSoccer programs in New Jersey: Champions Soccer Club, Chatham United, Club Dreams, Cranford Soccer Club, East Brunswick Soccer Club, Franklin Township Soccer Club, Glen Rock Shooting Stars, Harrison Soccer Club, Howell Soccer Club, Maple Shade Soccer-Moorestown Red, Montclair United Soccer Club, Morris United, Mt. Laurel United Soccer, Oaklyn Soccer Club, Point Pleasant Soccer Club, Roselle Park TOPSoccer, Teaneck Junior Soccer League, Toms River, Topedoes, Watchung Hills Soccer Club, West Morris Soccer Club and West Orange United Football Club.
As part of the webinar, Doon Wintz of West Morris Soccer Club TOPSoccer shared details about TOPZoom, a live virtual alternative to the in-person TOPSoccer programs that were interrupted by COVID-19. Over 10 weeks from April through June 25, WMSC youth volunteers engaged with 20 special needs players over Zoom to keep the community and fun flowing, according to the statement.
“It is encouraging to see how NJYS TOPSoccer has responded to COVID-19 obstacles and challenges by leading the way with helpful Return to Play suggestions and creative solutions such as TOPZoom that serve the special needs community,” Wintz said in the statement.
Alex Hoberman, a student volunteer with NJ Youth Soccer this summer, assisted in preparing the webinar content.
“I love soccer and could not think of a better program to support than TOPSoccer because it creates a welcoming environment of inclusion and community, regardless of an athlete’s ability or disability,” Hoberman, who plays with STA and is also on the varsity team at West Morris Central High School, said in the statement.
For more information about NJYS TOPSoccer, email communications@njyouthsoccer.com.
