Moorpark AYSO Ready to Grant VIP Treatment

The Moorpark AYSO is now accepting VIPs – Very Important Players, that is.

Geared towards children and adults who have some physical and/or mental challenges, the VIP program will be making its debut in Moorpark this fall.

“Nearby cities including Simi Valley and Thousand Oaks already have a VIP program in place,’ said Keith Pellerin, VIP program administrator in Moorpark. 

“We really just want to offer equal playing opportunity to everyone who may not otherwise be comfortable playing in mainstream teams,” said Pellerin, whose 11-year-old daughter Sydney has cerebral palsy.

Aside from the mobility-challenged, other special needs players including the blind, deaf, autistic and those afflicted with other mental and emotional challenges are also welcome. 

Teams may be co-ed and may consist of as little as three players, based on age, mobility or ability. 

“The common AYSO tenets will be there including helping everyone get equal playing time,” said Pellerin, a Moorpark resident.

“There are no age caps or age categories in the VIP program,” said Emily Gratke, who is in charge of publicity and buddy recruitment.

Gratke has been hard at work recruiting buddies from the community and from , where she is an incoming senior.

“We plan to have multiple buddies on the field at all times to help the athletes and maintain safety,” said the teen.

Unlike the regular AYSO program wherein players can be dropped off during practices and games, the presence of parents or guardians will be required during every VIP practice and game.

“We need them there in case there are medication needs, time-outs or other emergencies,” said Pellerin.

Another difference is the VIP season will be shorter with only nine games. “The registration fee is also lower at $50, including uniforms and we have financial assistance available,” said Pellerin.

Buddies, volunteers and coaches will also be required to undergo VIP training prior to the start of the season on September 8.

Pellerin said, “We are right now still recruiting coaches and finalizing important dates for sign-ups and the rest of the season. It’s exciting because there’s been overwhelming support so far and we're pleased that the program is now in Moorpark."

For more information or to sign up, contact 805.529.7666, email: registration@moorparkayso.org or click here.