Free Soccer Program Empowers Athletes With Disabilities

Written by Brenda Catalan

Free Soccer Program Empowers Athletes With Disabilities

Written by Brenda Catalan

TOPSoccer is a non-for-profit program designed to empower athletes with intellectual, emotional or physical disabilities through the joy of soccer. Sporting Wichita strives to bring inclusion and connection, while also creating a safe, supportive environment for athletes and their families. All coaches and buddies are trained in adaptive activities to provide the athletes with the best experience possible.

The Need for Inclusive Programs Is on The Rise

TOPSoccer was formed to sustain the US Youth Soccer mission statement, “To foster the physical, mental and emotional growth and development of America’s youth through the sport of soccer at all levels of age and competition.”

Mallorie LaFarge, TOPSoccer Representative for Kansas Youth Soccer, reached out to several large soccer clubs in the Wichita area in hopes of expanding TOPSoccer to the Wichita community. Daniel Fiszel, director of sporting in Wichita, knew this was something he wanted to adopt immediately. “My vision of having an inclusive and diverse club that accepts all cultures, races, religions and socioeconomic statuses dates to when I started Wichita Rojos. TOPSoccer is another step in ensuring all athletes, no matter their disability, knowledge or skill level have a place here at Sporting Wichita,” stated Fiszel.

Daniel Fiszel, Brenda Catalan, Jessica Grimes

Expanding TOPSoccer to Wichita

In 2024, LaFarge led the first Sporting Wichita TOPSoccer event at Stryker Sports Complex, with 80 athletes and their families in attendance. In May 2025, Jessica Grimes assumed the role as manager of the program. “I loved the idea of being part of such a special program. I love that TOPS creates a place where every athlete, regardless of ability, can play, belong and build confidence — all while moving their muscles and making friendships,” said Grimes.

Soon after, Brenda Catalan joined as TOPSoccer co-manager and coach. “We have been navigating a diagnosis for my oldest, all while facing challenges with coaches who cannot connect with him. As a coach, I recognize the importance of understanding your players' individual needs and nurturing their development. My hope while being involved with TOPS is to bring awareness and education to all the coaches in the club to better serve their players.”

“I love that TOPS creates a place where every athlete, regardless of ability, can play, belong and build confidence — all while moving their muscles and making friendships.” — Jessica Grimes, manager

These two women, along with Julie Marsh, Sporting Wichita club manager and Tracey Larsen, social media coordinator have been the driving force ensuring the program continues to run for the athletes. The club has been working to get the word out that TOPSoccer exists and is free for the athletes and families. They have set up tables at school resource fairs, transition fairs, and most recently attended an event for Wichita Public School’s Deaf and Hard of Hearing program.

These are not only educational but truly eye-opening opportunities to discover other resources out there that families may be unaware of. Sporting Wichita’s goal is to partner with as many outreach programs for those with disabilities as possible, so they can continue to grow their program — but also make those connections within the community to direct athletes and families should the need arise.

The Future of Sporting Wichita TOPSoccer

By adopting TOPSoccer into Sporting Wichita, the club is modeling how essential it is to be inclusive to all those in the community. “My hope for the future is that more families are made aware our program exists, so they can bring their child(ren) out to participate and have fun,” said Fiszel.