In 1999, Region 98 started a EPIC soccer program for special needs kids. EPIC is a program designed for children with developmental or physical disabilities who want to play soccer. EPIC players who need on-field assistance are assigned a "buddy". Buddies are girls and boys in divisions U12 and above (ages 10 and older) who serve as helpers and friends to EPIC players, offering players on-field assistance so they can "play the ball". For instance, a EPIC player who is blind would have a buddy nearby who could give verbal clues as to where the ball is as well as other directional advice as needed in order to play the ball.
Teams or boys and girls interested in serving as a buddy can contact our EPIC Coordinator,
Sarah Robledo.
Time spent serving as a EPIC buddy count as community service hours.