What is SABR TOPSoccer?
If you’re a high school student (or the parent of one) looking for a way to complete volunteer hours for high schoolers, community service hours for graduation, or Bright Futures, SABR TOPSoccer is an amazing option.
TOPSoccer is a recreational soccer program for athletes of all ages with special needs beginning at 4, and it’s been part of Boca Raton since the early 2000s. Practices and games are adapted for full participation, and each player is paired with a volunteer “Soccer Buddy” to assist during practices and games.
It’s also one of the earliest and largest programs of its kind in the U.S. Youth Soccer Association. Over the years, SABR’s Buddies and coaches have been recognized by Florida Youth Soccer and USYSA with awards for their impact. Thanks to local sponsors and donors, the program is free for families.
What do Buddies do?
So how do you become a Buddy—and what does that actually mean?
“Soccer Buddies” are students in 8th grade or older who get paired with an athlete during practices and games. Buddies encourage their players, help with drills, and make sure everyone is included and having fun.
For high school students, it’s one of the best community service ideas because it checks every box: you’re active, outdoors, giving back to the community, and earning the volunteer hours required for both Palm Beach County graduation and Bright Futures scholarships. Many Buddies start around age 13 or 14 and continue through high school. What begins as a way to log hours often turns into friendships and community involvement that last well beyond the season.
What the Season Looks Like
This year’s season runs from January 10 through March 14, with a break on February 14 for President’s Day. Orientation takes place on January 4 at 3:30 PM at the Sugar Sand Park Field House. All games are played at University Woodlands Park on St. Andrews Blvd.
On game days:
- Buddy Captains check in at 1:00 PM to set up with the trainer.
- Buddies arrive at 2:30 PM, and players by 2:45.
- At 3:00 there’s a warm-up, skills activities, and then a modified game.
- By 5:00 PM, equipment is packed up and fields are cleaned.
Buddies are asked to commit to the nine Game Days plus orientation. If you can’t make every session, you can still help as a floater, but consistent attendance helps players and Buddies form lasting friendships.
Why Students Keep Coming Back
For many students, TOPSoccer starts as a way to fulfill community service requirements. But what they gain goes far beyond the field. Buddies discover new passions, develop leadership skills, and sometimes even career paths.
The impact is felt by athletes, parents, and volunteers alike—and everyone is welcome, even without soccer experience. As TOPSoccer Director Vic Nocera put it:
“A volunteer doesn’t need to know anything about TOPSoccer or even soccer itself. It’s a great opportunity to earn community service hours and work with the special-needs community. The kids find it very rewarding, and most use this program as part of their college applications. The bond between Buddies and players is unique and inspiring.”
TOPSoccer Administrator Suzi explained:
“Many Buddies go on to careers in special ed, special needs medicine, and special needs physical therapy.”
We’ve also seen Buddies step up as leaders. Last season, Buddy Captain Michael Babincak stood out. Suzi shared, “He arrived early, stayed late, guided others as a true leader, and always had a smile on his face. Today, he’s a freshman at Notre Dame, his dream school!”
Suzi added:
“The Buddies look forward to seeing their players year after year. They often form lasting friendships that span beyond the soccer fields. Our Buddies are the heart and soul of the program, and we continue to grow because of their commitment.”
Stories like these show just a few of the ways Buddies make an impact on athletes and families. What begins as a way to earn volunteer hours often becomes a life-changing experience filled with friendships, growth, and opportunities that extend far beyond high school.
Ready to Get Started?
Our season begins January 10, and we’re looking for new Buddies beginning October 1. Click here for the enrollment form to sign up and join us on the field this season!