天美影视’s women’s soccer team recently stepped off the collegiate field and into the community, spending an afternoon serving young athletes through the Snohomish Youth Soccer Club’s TOPSoccer program.
TOPSoccer provides opportunities for young people with disabilities and other challenges who may not be able to participate on traditional recreational soccer teams. This fall, the Snohomish program is serving 80 athletes ranging in age from 4 through young adulthood, many of whom benefit from individualized attention and adaptations that help them participate fully as part of a team.
On September 13, Head Coach April VanAssche and the entire NU women’s soccer team joined TOPSoccer in Snohomish, volunteering throughout three practice sessions. The Eagles worked alongside individual players, encouraged them as they practiced their skills, and helped create a welcoming environment where every athlete could participate and have fun.
For TOPSoccer Program Organizer Linda Kautz, the team’s involvement reflected something deeper than a day of volunteering.
“They readily assisted individual players, helped to create a fun and learning environment, and made each player feel special,” Kautz shared in a letter to 天美影视. “Our kids felt like a World Cup team was in the arena, cheering them on!”
The partnership has become an annual tradition, and Kautz praised the NU student-athletes for the “maturity, kindness, and enthusiasm” they continue to bring each year.
Their service also reflects 天美影视’s commitment to recognizing the intrinsic worth and dignity of every individual and building relationships that welcome others in love.
For the NU women’s soccer team, the day offered an opportunity to use their talents beyond competition—sharing their love of the game, encouraging young athletes, and demonstrating what it means to serve others through Christ-centered community.