What is Andover Challenger Soccer • Challenger Soccer is a soccer program for boys and girls from ages 5 to around 12 with various types of special needs. The goal of this program is to give everyone a chance to play regardless of limitation. • This program was started in 1998 by Tommy Arrigg and his brother David Arrigg. After participating in the Challenger Baseball League, founded by Matt Haymer, the boys were inspired to start a similar program called Challenger Soccer. With the approval of the Andover Soccer Association, the program was launched and has continued to grow each year. Coach Bonnie Spurr, who runs the on the field activities is an energetic, loving and and inspiring coach who is adored by all the players. This program enables every child the opportunity to participate in soccer and have fun, regardless of their ability. • This program allows for the players of Challenger Soccer to create friendships and to be in the atmosphere of loving buddies, coaches and other players. • During the practices, high school aged volunteers called "buddies", help their player by acting as a guide, teaching them how to kick and run with the ball. Each buddy works with his player on a one on one basis. The affection that grows between buddies and players is incredibly inspiring and appreciated by the parents who watch from the sidelines rooting on their favorite player. • The season will run throughout the fall. At the end of the season at our annual end of season party, each player is individually presented and rewarded with a trophy with their names printed on it. |