Arima

Trinidad

The Trinidad and Tobago American Youth Soccer Organization will be opening its 2008 Season on a high note because for the first time ever, thirty-five Special Needs children from the Memisa Home Arima will be participating courtesy of Little Feet Supporters. You can help these 35 physically challenged kids that have been wanting to join a soccer program since 2006, but have not been able to find a sponsor. Welcome to the Lady Hochoy Home of Arima "Memisa" of Trinidad and Tobago. Each student is considered to have a mental disability but there isn't money in their budget to have a proper mental diagnosis.

Arima is situated in the eastern district of Trinidad, just 32 miles from the capital city Port of Spain. The school is hidden away in an area called Demera Road or known locally as "Dump Road" as the waste disposal site is also in the same vicinity. Government funding is limited and these "special needs" school do not receive the quality of education the normal schools do.

Dale Toney, the Commissioner of AYSO Region 1450, will be coordinating our efforts in helping these children. Dale will be volunteering his time to coach these children and for the first time ever allow them to participate in an organized league. AYSO's motto is "Everyone Plays" and with the help of Dale Toney and Little Feet supporters, we can live up to this motto

This is an email that was sent to us from Jake Ortho, a Little Feet Supporter from Chicago:

I remain to be greatly excited about the soccer program in Trinidad. I'm a parent of a physically challenged child. My daughter is 4 years old and has spinal muscular atrophy, the family disease of muscular dystrophy. As much as I hate to say it, now that she's getting older her disease is becoming more known to her which is what I've always been afraid of. Having two older brothers which one still plays soccer and are much involved like myself, brings her close to the game. Well I love to use the phrase " The little engine that could ", because that's my daughter, very determined to make it to the finish. I've witnessed the priceless faces among these type of children in our soccer program who can share the same experience with one another. The one hour of practice we have, clears the mind of these players that their disease exists. Talk about feeling and witnessing the happiest moment watching these kids play........just priceless!!!!! Every child no matter what deserves to PLAY!!!

In the Spotlight

Name:

Ronelle Guy

Age:

Location:

Arima, Trinidad

About:

Ronelle's favorite subject is music and she hopes to grow up to be a dancer one day. Like everyone else, she loves Disney movies.

Who Will Make the Pass

Who will make the pass:

Dale Toney

Organization:

TT AYSO

Website:

http://ayso1450.d4sportsclub.com/

About:

The regional commisioner of TT AYSO and a personal friend of mine, Dale has graciosly volunteered his time to put together a real team and coach these kids.