HomeMy WebLinkAbout102-Commendation.pdfCOMMENDATION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SARATOGA
HONORING
“BOB HOPKINS”
WHEREAS, Bob Hopkins has taken the dream of "Everyone Plays", a philosophy of AYSO, and has
made it a reality for hundreds of special needs kids who cannot participate safely in a mainstream soccer
program. The local program "South Bay VIP Soccer", www.southbayvipsoccer.org was started by the three
AYSO regions covering Saratoga, Cupertino and West San Jose. Bob volunteered to be the administrator
when it began in the Fall of 2003. He has successfully lead this program in both Fall and Spring seasons. This
Fall will be his eighteenth season; and
WHEREAS, many of the families of the players have been in the program since its inception and all
have expressed deep gratitude that this is available for their children. Additionally, the VIP program has
provided opportunities for the youth in the area to earn their community service requirements in a fun-filled
and enriching program for these special players. We call our youth volunteers "Buddies" because they
participate as a new friend and in many cases have developed strong bonds with the players and their
families; and
WHEREAS, families of players have said that the first day their child put on his or her uniform was
one of the happiest days of their lives; and
WHEREAS, all of this has been possible because of Bob Hopkins’ volunteers who participate as
buddies, coaches and helpers. Bob Hopkins is a special person whose energy, guidance, and dedication are
second to none; and
WHEREAS, the mission of the American Youth Soccer Organization VIP Program is to provide a
quality soccer experience for individuals with physical or mental disabilities that make it difficult for them to
successfully participate on mainstream soccer teams. Successful participation is defined by the player's
enjoyment and the safety of all team members.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Saratoga does hereby
recognize and commend Bob Hopkins for his dedication to bring the game of safe soccer to our special needs
kids.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Saratoga does hereby recognize and
commend all the special kids that participate in the “Soccer for Kids with Special Needs” program.
WITNESS MY HAND AND THE SEAL OF THE CITY OF SARATOGA on this 2nd day of June 2010.
_________________________
Kathleen M. King, Mayor
City of Saratoga