Buddying up with the EPIC program

PHOTO: Volunteers of the EPIC program set up the fields

By Ellie Blosch

BlueDevilHUB.com Staff–

Players and volunteers of Davis’ AYSO EPIC program show up every Sunday ready to play soccer. 

EPIC (Everyone Plays In Our Community), is a nationwide program designed to “provide players with special needs the additional support they need to fully participate in a safe and fun soccer experience” (davisayso.org).

The volunteers, called buddies, show up early to the field and help coaches set up. 

Once the cones are set and the fields have been created, the buddies split up across the different fields and wait to greet the players.

Head Coach Ricardo Amon has been with the program for 18 years. “The thing that makes me most happy is when I see the buddies getting to enjoy themselves and connect with the players,” Amon said. “Over the season after two or three sessions, we really see a lot of bonding that takes place.”

Buddies plan drills for the players and create games tailored to their individual personalities, incorporating skill, fun, and teamwork.

A few of these buddies are students at Davis High, including junior Hayley Smith. “I started volunteering with EPIC in April of my sophomore year and continued into the fall,” Smith said, “Everybody is super friendly, it’s really fun to use my love of sports and pass it on to others.” 

Smith enjoys the community aspect of the program and appreciates the welcoming environment. “My favorite part about the program is the kids,” Smith said, “The EPIC community is really great, and I definitely plan on continuing to volunteer.”

Those interested in volunteering or registering a player can visit davisayso.org.