Why
Inspire Soccer League Matters
The Inspire Soccer League is more than just a game—it's a movement. This all-gender, year-long national soccer league is founded on the belief that athletes with intellectual disabilities deserve a platform to shine and express their true potential. Every match played is a celebration of courage, determination, and unity, transcending the field to inspire communities nationwide. Through sport, we aim to break down barriers and shatter stereotypes, proving that when we come together for a cause, we can change lives. Join us in championing inclusivity, empowerment, and the pure joy of playing, because in the Inspire Soccer League, every goal scored ignites hope and fosters connection.
6.5 million
people
There are 6.5 million people in the US experiencing intellectual disabilities (ID).¹
700K
700K athletes with intellectual disabilities in the US¹
40%
Less
Among children, sports participation of those with ID is 40% less than those without ID.²
Individuals with ID live 16-20 years less
On average, individuals with ID live 16-20 years less than the general population, attributable to lower physical activity levels and limited access to quality healthcare.³
Only 15-27% of people with ID meet the baseline recommended physical activity levels set by the WHO. 50% of adults without ID meet this threshold.⁴
Nearly half of all individuals with ID suffer from obesity.⁵
Mental health issues affect 40-60% of people with ID.⁶
Across the board, people with ID face significant obstacles in attaining equitable healthcare due to a lack of accessibility to modern medical treatment, late or no diagnoses of coexisting conditions, and a general indifference toward their needs.
BEFORE THE INSPIRE SOCCER LEAGUE, THERE WERE
ZERO YEAR-LONG COMPETITIONS
FOR ATHLETES WITH ID IN THE UNITED STATES
Improves physical health by
55%
Reduces anxiety and depression by
61%
Boosts social support networks by
65%
self-esteem & confidence Improved by
82%
Project Inspire aims to reconstruct the system from the ground up. Amplifying our athletes’ voices and providing a channel for consistent community and physical activity leads to their health, wellbeing, autonomy, and ultimately, the full life they deserve.
Make a donation!
It all begins with a vision for inclusivity and empowerment. Athletes with disabilities possess immense potential, yet often face barriers that require support to overcome. Your contribution can help level the playing field. Donations provide vital resources such as training facilities, specialized equipment, and coaching that enable these athletes to reach their goals and showcase their talents.
By supporting these remarkable individuals, you are not just helping them pursue their athletic dreams. You are fostering a greater understanding of the capabilities of athletes with disabilities and inspiring others in the community. Every donation, big or small, can make a tangible difference in their lives.
Join us in championing the dreams of these athletes. Your generosity can create opportunities, build confidence, and drive change in the sports community. Together, we can empower athletes with disabilities to shine brighter and achieve their ambitions.
Financial report
Project Inspire is dedicated to expanding opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities to engage in competitive soccer on a national scale. Over the next several years, we plan to systematically grow both the number of teams and the number of fixtures.
¹ Olympics, S. (2016). Demographic Information for U.S. athletes and non-athletes with intellectual disabilities. Special Olympics.
² Lloyd, M. (2016). Physical Activity of Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities: Challenges and Future Directions. Springer Link, 91- 93.
³ Siperstein, G., Romano, N., mohler, A. and Parker, R. (2006) a national survey of consumer attitudes towards companies that hire people with disabilities. Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, 24, 3-9. - references - scientific research publishing. (n.d.).
⁴ Dairo, Y. M., Collett, J., Dawes, H., & Oskrochi, G. R. (2016). Physical activity levels in adults with intellectual disabilities: A systematic review. Preventive medicine reports, 4, 209–219.
⁵ Systems, D. a. (2022). CDC.gov. From https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/disabilityandhealth/features/disability-health-data.html
⁶ Mira, T., Costa, A. M., Jacinto, M., Diz, S., Monteiro, D., Rodrigues, F., Matos, R., & Antunes, R. (2023, May 8). Well-being, resilience and social support of athletes with disabilities: A systematic review. MDPI.
⁷ Malm, C., Jakobsson, J., & Isaksson, A. (2019). Physical Activity and Sports-Real Health Benefits: A Review with Insight into the Public Health of Sweden. Sports (Basel, Switzerland), 7(5), 127.