On Saturday, October 26, 2013, the Aurora University men's soccer program volunteered with the Chicago TOPSoccer organization at Addison Trail High School. 

The Spartans have had a three-year relationship with TOPSoccer with over 50 different AU soccer players and staff participating in the program.  TOPSoccer is a national organization that provides community-based soccer training for young athletes with severe mental and physical disabilities. 

Members of the men's soccer program served as "Buddies" by assisting with the training and development of over 20 children ages 4-16.  Through the sport of soccer, AU players incorporated the theme of Halloween into several games and even dressed up in costumes to provide a fun afternoon for the children. 

"It was very rewarding to help children experience the joy of soccer and love playing the sport we get to enjoy," said junior Jon Rosenbaum. "These children are in very difficult situations and for them to have fun through playing soccer, that by far is the most rewarding thing for us to experience."

Small games progressed throughout the afternoon with a full scrimmage and award ceremony at the end of the day.  In addition to playing soccer with the children, members of the team were able to interact with parents and staff of the TOPSoccer organization.