Florida TOPSoccer Leadership Summit Brings Clubs Together to Learn, Share and Grow
TOPSoccer leaders from across Florida and beyond came together on Saturday, August 22, for the 2026 Florida TOPSoccer Leadership Summit, creating an opportunity for clubs to connect, share ideas and find new ways to grow their programs.
The Summit brought together both established TOPSoccer programs and clubs beginning their TOPSoccer journey for a day focused on education, collaboration and practical tools that leaders can take back to their communities.
Throughout the day, attendees explored topics including program development, volunteer and buddy recruitment, marketing, adaptive coaching, equipment and First Aid. While the sessions covered a variety of topics, one message remained consistent: clubs do not have to build their TOPSoccer programs alone.
Florida TOPSoccer is committed to supporting clubs every step of the way through coach and buddy education, mentoring, adaptive equipment assistance and connections with experienced TOPSoccer leaders across the state.
One of the highlights of the Summit was the TOPSoccer Leader Exchange, which gave attendees the opportunity to openly discuss the challenges they face, share solutions and learn from the experiences of other clubs. The conversation highlighted the value of bringing leaders together and creating a space where clubs can learn from one another.
The Summit also welcomed Elizabeth Warlick, a TOPSoccer coach with the Joseph Warlick Memorial Foundation in Tennessee. Elizabeth joined Florida leaders to learn more about Florida TOPSoccer and take new ideas back to her program in Tennessee.
“The generosity you showed, from the equipment provided to the open Q&A sessions, made a real difference, and I left with so many practical ideas I can put to use right away,” Elizabeth said. “The level of support you offer to TOPSoccer clubs across Florida is genuinely impressive and something I hope to bring back home to Tennessee.”
More than a day of presentations and discussions, the Summit was about building connections and strengthening the TOPSoccer community. Leaders left with new ideas, new resources and new connections that can help their programs continue to provide meaningful opportunities for athletes with disabilities.
Thank you to everyone who attended, presented and helped make the 2026 FYSA TOPSoccer Leadership Summit a success. Together, we can continue growing TOPSoccer across Florida, one athlete, one volunteer, one club, and one community at a time.
For more information about starting or growing a TOPSoccer program, visit FYSA’s TOPSoccer page or contact FYSA’s TOPSoccer Chair, Jennifer DiTillio.
By Jennifer DiTillio, TOPSoccer Committee Chair