2014 TOPSoccer Buddy of the Year

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Zach Saliterman (West Morris SC) started as a TOPSoccer Buddy in 2009 when his family launched the program in Mendham which was eventually sponsored by the West Morris SC. TOPSoccer is a community-based program that provides a fun and engaging soccer program for young athletes with mental or physical disabilities. The program is administered by specially trained coaches and buddies who support the players as needed. Now in his 13th consecutive season with the organization, he has 70+ training sessions under his belt, 18 of which he was acted as the program trainer.

As a 17-year-old, he has the talent and maturity to do it all. His mother, Megan Saliterman, is the founder of the program and also a NJ Youth Soccer TOPSoccer Area Coordinator.

“Zach has demonstrated he can do everything, and proved this in the fall when I attended my daughter’s college games. I honestly would be challenged to keep our program going without his leadership,” Megan says.

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Here is little more about Zach from an interview with New Jersey Youth Soccer:

Zach Saliterman with Rick Meana

How does community service and soccer play a role in your life?Community service plays a very large role in my life. My family started a TOPSoccer program when I was in middle school which has given me the opportunity to teach kids with disabilities how to play soccer. I have been running the program for the last two years so I am able to interact not only with the players, but with their parents. I have also formed a bond with all of the volunteers since they are my high school classmates and share my dedication to the program.

What is a character attribute you have that has contributed to your personal success?

I care about people – whether it’s my travel teammates, coaches or my TOPSoccer team. Everyone is important. I am also very dedicated. I make sure to follow through on all of my commitments.

How did you get started playing soccer?

My brother and sister were both very competitive soccer players. I would always go to their games and practices and play with them in our backyard. I decided to try out for a travel team when we moved to New Jersey when I was in 2nd grade. It was a great experience and I have been playing ever since.

What is your favorite NJ Youth Soccer memory/moment?

My favorite memory was winning the flight in the spring season with my town team. We had come close to winning many years and this was the last season before everybody dispersed to different clubs.

What advice would you give to someone who is interested or has just started playing organized youth soccer?

I would recommend they start playing as soon as possible. As I started to play more and more soccer, I fell in love with the game and greatly improved my skills. Take every opportunity to keep your foot on the ball. Watch as much professional soccer as possible and don’t only look at where the ball is but where you think it should be passed.

What are some hard lessons you’ve learned from the game?

I’ve learned that the best team doesn’t always win. With that said, you always have to go out there and try your hardest. Working with your teammates is critical since strong team chemistry can get you through challenging situations.

Who is your favorite soccer player? Why?

David Silva from Manchester City. He is an impressive presence on the field and has great footwork and sharp passes. He also overcame challenges coming from a small fishing village; he was also often criticized for his size. He proved everyone wrong and has excelled on the field.

What is your favorite pre-game/post-game meal?

My favorite pre-game meal the night before a game is any type of pasta. After the game, I’ll eat anything, since I’m usually starving.

How would your coach describe you as a player?

Zach is a very selfless player who focuses as much on his teammates as he does on himself. He is also very dedicated and rarely misses a team event.

Anything else you’d like to include?

I am a Grade 8 referee and enjoy this opportunity to be part of the game from a completely different perspective.