---

WEST HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. - A growing partnership between the Adelphi University women's soccer team and West Hempstead TOPSoccer continued to blossom last month with a pair of clinics for the town's special needs youths at George Washington Elementary School.

The relationship -- now in its third year -- was formed by Adelphi junior women's soccer player Morgan Salmon, who first volunteered with the program in her hometown of West Hempstead while coming up through high school at Kellenberg.

"Volunteering for TOPSoccer has always been a passion of mine. Soccer has always been a beautiful sport that unites everyone, regardless of their differences," Salmon voiced. "The environment is inclusive, positive, and energetic. It is truly rewarding. The kids that participate have smiles that brighten everyone's day. My teammates and I always look forward to volunteering at TOPSoccer, because we are able to give back to our community, and visit lifelong friends that we have made."

"It has been a great connection these last few years between TOPSoccer and Adelphi Women's Soccer. It was really nice seeing the smiles on all of the young players' faces. It was also special to see the unique connections that the participants were making with our athletes," said head coach Brooke DeRosa.

Across two separate weekends, the student-athletes paired up with a child to offer 1-on-1 instruction, and helped coordinate a full team scrimmage at the conclusion of the clinic.

"The team is always enthusiastic, positive and really makes it special for our TOPSoccer players," West Hempstead TOPSoccer founder Lauren Lee said. "It was great having the team there and I really appreciate having their support."

The Outreach Program for Soccer (TOPSoccer) is a community-based training program that helps young athletes with disabilities. Since 2009, it has honored individuals who demonstrate patience, understanding and dependability, while helping to create a fun experience for children through soccer.

 

ABOUT THE NE10
The NE10 is an association of 13 diverse institutions serving student-athletes across 24 NCAA Division II sports. Together we build brilliant futures by embracing the journey of every student-athlete.

Each year, 4,500 of those student-athletes compete in conference championships in 24 sports, making the NE10 the largest DII conference in the country in terms of sport sponsorship. Leading the way in the classroom, on the field and within the community, the NE10 is proud of its comprehensive program and the experience it provides student-athletes.