Mission Statement
USA Deaf Soccer Association’s (USADSA) mission is to empower d/Deaf and Hard of Hearing female and male soccer players with the opportunity to represent and contribute to the United States of America and the d/Deaf and Hard of Hearing community on both a national and international stage. USADSA supports the International Committee of Sports for the Deaf motto: Per Ludos Aequalitas (Equality through Sports); and adheres to the ideals of the Deaflympics.
Deafness in Soccer
Deafness is often referred to as a hidden disability because its challenges aren’t immediately visible, but they can significantly impact athletes on the field. Soccer players that are d/Deaf and Hard of Hearing often face unique obstacles when participating against hearing peers, such as not being able to hear a coach’s or teammate’s instructions, a referee’s call, or the roar of the crowd. These critical elements, which hearing players might take for granted, can influence the outcome of a match.
About USA Deaf Soccer
The USADSA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization representing over 308,648 children between the ages of 5 and 17 and 11 million adults in the United States who identify as d/Deaf and Hard of Hearing. Our programs provide a vital opportunity for these individuals to participate in soccer, recreationally and competitively. We offer a pathway for D/deaf and Hard of Hearing players to reach their full potential in soccer through clinics and camps. In addition to developing soccer skills, participants build confidence, foster teamwork, and create a sense of belonging.
About US Soccer's Deaf National Teams
The U.S. Men’s and Women’s Deaf National Teams officially joined the U.S. Soccer Extended National Team program in 2022, after years of activity as a member organization national team.
The teams include eligible qualifying players who must have a hearing loss of at least 55DB in their “better 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. 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.
The Deaf Men’s National Team recently claimed the bronze medal at the 2024 Pan American Deaf Games, and won the 2019 Pan American Deaf Games. If you are interested in more information about the Men’s Team, please contact the men’s representative Kevin Fitzpatrick. To learn more about the men’s team, please click here.
The Deaf Women’s National Team are the reigning 2005, 2009, 2013, and 2023 Deaflympics Gold Medal winners. They are also the reigning 2012, 2016, and 2022 Deaf World Cup Champions. If you are interested in more information about the Women’s Team please contact the women’s representative Gracie Fitzgerald. To learn more about the women’s team, please click here.
Donations and Sponsorships
USA Deaf Soccer Association is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization. If you are interested in donating to or sponsoring our efforts to create more playing opportunities for d/Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals, please click here for our Membership page or contact Kate Ward.