LONDON, ON -February 15, 2007 -Kensal Park Soccer Club is announcing the launching of two new divisions under a "League Of Our Own". These divisions are "Special Needs" and "Autism Spectrum Disorder" This program will start in the summer of 2007. 

There are hundreds of children with disabilities who need, and can be provided with, the opportunity to play soccer through the ALOOO program.  The program fosters physical, mental and emotional growth and development of London's special needs community through the sport of soccer at all ages and abilities. Our program is uniquely tailored to meet the needs of our athletes.

The season starts in May and will be approximately 10 weeks with one-hour programming two twice a week. Players are grouped according to age and physical ability.  Volunteers run this program and their main focus is helping players learn to play soccer in a fun, friendly and accepting environment.

HISTORY

This unique League is one of the first developmental soccer leagues in Canada for individuals with Down Syndrome. Founded in May 2003 with the support of Ken Lee, President of the Kensal Park Soccer Club, Mike Rozon, President of the Optimist Club of Middlesex-London, sponsor of the league, and Rose Price, President of the London Down Syndrome Association.

DIVISIONS
Special Needs
For children with special needs ages 5 to 12 regardless of skill or previous experience. Players who participate in this division must be independently ambulatory (Ankle foot orthodics and foot bracing is accepted.). Tuesdays & Thursdays at West Lions Soccer Field, 20 Barrington Avenue, (North of Riverside Drive, off of Wharncliffe Drive), London, ON.
Down Syndrome
For children, youth and adults with Down syndrome ages 5 to adult regardless of skill or previous experience. Tuesdays & Thursdays at West Lions Soccer Field, 20 Barrington Avenue, (North of Riverside Drive, off of Wharncliffe Drive), London, ON.
Autism Spectrum Disorder
For children with Autism Spectrum Disorder ages 4 to 10 regardless of skill or previous experience. Dates to be determined. Home field: Murray Park, London, ON., Contact: Wanda Hutchinson, email: alooo-asd@kensalparksoccer.ca or Judy Wright at 519-471-8542.

PROGRAM

This program provides a meaningful learning experience, and offers developmental and physical participation to these athletes through the game of soccer.
The goal of the program is to enable athletes to...

1. understand the fundamental of the game
2. increase physical fitness 
3. promote team sportsmanship 
4. encourage socialization/friendships 
5. develop co-ordination and balance
6. build muscle tone

And most of all to have fun! "Everyone is a Winner" All Athletes will receive a uniform and an award at the end of the season.

COACHES & BUDDIES

All our coaches and buddies are VOLUNTEERS! They are required to undergo a background check. All coaches have to be registered with the Ontario Soccer Association.  The majority of our coaches and buddies sign up at registration. However, if more coaches/buddies are needed, we will call parents to volunteer.
If you have time to volunteer or know of someone please contact us.

COST

We are determined to keep the price as minimal as possible for participation in this program; the registration fee is only $25.00 per player.

If you know of a business or corporation that would be willing to donate funds specifically toward this program, please contact Ken Lee at (519) 471-4653.