The LA Galaxy has announced that they will once again field a team of talented individuals for their 2023 LA Galaxy Unified Soccer Team and are conducting tryouts on Saturday, March 4 at Dignity Health Sports Park.
In partnership with the MLS Exchange program, the LA Galaxy and Special Olympics Southern California (SOSC) are seeking mid-to-advanced level soccer players with and without intellectual disabilities, between the ages of 16-25, for the opportunity to play on a competitive 11-a-side team and participate in training, matches and inclusive social experiences!
To register, visit: https://www.sosc.org/mlstryouts
This coed Special Olympics team will consist of players chosen based on 3 key factors: (1) players ability to work well with others and value teammates of all abilities, (2) a high level of commitment to the Play Unified experience and to their fellow teammates, and finally (3) their understanding of the game and rules of soccer. The LA Galaxy SOSC team is scheduled to play 2-3 matches this season against other MLS-affiliated Special Olympics Unified Soccer teams from other states. In past years, these marquee match-ups have included hosting the San Jose Earthquakes Special Olympics Unified team as well as the unique opportunity to travel and play against Real Salt Lake Special Olympics Unified.
After team selection, chosen players will be required to officially register as a Special Olympics athlete or a Special Olympics Unified Partner with all players required to attend and participate in all team activities: practices, games and social events on match weekends. Additionally, players must provide their own transportation to all team activities as well as soccer equipment (soccer cleats and shin guards).
About Unified Sports
Unified Sports brings people with and without disabilities together to form lifelong bonds by competing, learning and growing as equals. By promoting social inclusion through shared sports training and competition experiences, Unified Sports dismantles stereotypes about people with intellectual disabilities in an innovative way. Unified Sports was inspired by a simple principle: playing together is a quick path to friendship and understanding.
WHO?
Individuals with and without intellectual disabilities, between the ages of 16-25, who want to create meaningful friendships while playing on a competitive 11-aside soccer team.
WHAT?
LA Galaxy SOSC Unified Soccer Team Tryouts
WHEN?
Saturday, March 4, 2023 from 12:30 -5:30 p.m.
WHERE?
Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson