Inclusive & Autism-Friendly Soccer Programs in NYC

Inclusive Soccer Where Every Child Belongs

Open Goal Soccer offers inclusive, autism-friendly youth soccer programs in New York City, designed to support children of all abilities as they learn, play, and grow together. Our community-based programs welcome neurodiverse children, including those on the autism spectrum, while intentionally fostering mixed-ability participation and peer connection.

Families searching for inclusive activities, adaptive sports, or OPWDD-supported programs will find Open Goal Soccer to be a welcoming, supportive place where children can build confidence, coordination, and social skills—on and off the field.

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Supporting Neurodiverse Children Through Inclusive Play

Open Goal Soccer supports children with a wide range of learning styles, abilities, and developmental differences, including:

•Autism spectrum differences

•ADHD

•Sensory sensitivities

•Developmental delays

•Children who benefit from additional structure or peer support

Our programs are not segregated. Children participate in inclusive, mixed-ability groups, learning alongside peers in a supportive, community-based environment.

What Makes us Different

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Autism-Friendly & Sensory-Aware Approach

What Makes Our Soccer Program Autism-Friendly

Our autism-friendly approach focuses on creating an environment where children feel safe, understood, and encouraged. This includes:

Predictable session structure and routines
Clear, supportive communication
Sensory-aware coaching (volume, transitions, pacing)
Positive reinforcement and encouragement
Flexibility to meet individual needs within the group

This approach helps children stay engaged while building independence, confidence, and comfort in group settings. ⚽

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Buddy Support Program

(Key Differentiator)

Buddy-Supported Inclusive Soccer

Open Goal Soccer offers an optional Buddy Support Program for players who benefit from additional guidance during sessions.

Buddies are trained youth mentors or volunteers who:

Provide one-on-one encouragement
Help players follow activities and instructions
Support social interaction and engagement
Reinforce confidence while promoting independence

Buddy support allows children to remain fully included in group play while receiving the extra support they need to succeed. 💚

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Community-Based & OPWDD-Aligned

OPWDD & Community-Based Participation

Many families use OPWDD self-direction funds to participate in Open Goal Soccer. Our program aligns with OPWDD goals by emphasizing:

Community inclusion
Social development
Skill building
Peer interaction
Meaningful participation

We are happy to provide program descriptions, invoices, schedules, and documentation to support OPWDD funding requests. ⚽💚

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Serving Families Across NYC

Open Goal Soccer currently offers inclusive youth soccer programs in:

Greenpoint, Brooklyn
Long Island City, Queens
Flushing Meadows Park, Queens

Additional community locations are added seasonally. Visit our Programs page for current schedules and availability. ⚽💚

Why Families Trust Our Inclusive Soccer Programs

Families choose Open Goal Soccer because we offer:

A welcoming, inclusive environment for all children
Autism-friendly and neurodiverse-affirming support
Mixed-ability group play that encourages belonging
Adaptive coaching and optional buddy support
Community-based programs aligned with OPWDD goals

Our focus is not competition—it’s growth, confidence, and connection.

My Story

Ready to Get Started?

Looking for Inclusive & Adaptive Soccer for your child Near You?

Families looking for inclusive & autism-friendly soccer in Queens
Families seeking adaptive soccer programs in Brooklyn
Families searching for inclusive youth soccer in Long Island City

Our adaptive soccer programs support children of all abilities throughout Queens, Brooklyn, and Long Island City — with inclusive sessions at accessible locations across New York City.

we’d love to welcome your family.

👉 Explore Our Programs

👉 Register Your Child

👉 Contact Us to Discuss Support Needs

We’re happy to answer questions and help determine the best fit for your child.