Deafness in Soccer

Deafness is a hidden 'disability'. In sports such as soccer, players face certain hidden disadvantages, such as not being able to hear their coach's instructions during a game, a referee's decision or the roar of the crowd. Because deaf soccer players compete regularly against their hearing peers, these aspects of the game taken for granted, can make a difference during the course of a match.

Under international criteria, to be eligible to compete in deaf soccer competitions, players must have an average hearing loss of 55 Decibels or more in the best ear. All players competing in deaf matches must remove all hearing aids before playing which creates another obstacle to overcome, balance - another important advantage for a hearing player.

Join the Team

Generally, the men's squad plays at a level equal to that of a strong NCAA Division 2 team. Players who will be successful with the Men's Team typically have club and/or college soccer background.

The women are the regining 2005 and 2009 Deaflympics Gold Medal winners.

There is no age minimum or maximum requirement. The ages of players selected to the squad range from as young as 15 to as old as 38, with the average age being approximately 23 to 26.