MAVA Members,
A group of students at Monty Tech in Fitchburg, are working on a community service project and making a meaningful impact in the community.
This effort is an initiative the Monty Tech SkillsUSA chapter of the Massachusetts SkillsUSA.
MAVA is very proud of the students and their advisors participating in this special initiative.
David
Monty Tech students team up with TOPSoccer for inclusive sports
The Gardner News April 7, 2026, 4:47 a.m. ET
The Monty Tech SkillsUSA Community Service Team is partnering with TOPSoccer to support children with disabilities. This collaboration aims to promote inclusion, teamwork and character development through soccer, according to a community announcement.
TOPSoccer is a program designed for children with disabilities, allowing them to participate in soccer each Sunday morning from April 19 through June 7. The program focuses on helping children gain confidence, develop skills, and experience joy on the field. With the assistance of parents and volunteers, including Monty Tech SkillsUSA students, the program has created a welcoming environment for every child to participate and grow, according to the announcement.
Program growth and community involvement
The program has seen significant growth over the past year, expanding from 14 athletes and three volunteers in 2024 to more than 20 athletes and 12 volunteers in 2025. The Monty Tech SkillsUSA Community Service Team has been instrumental in this growth, organizing events to raise awareness and funds for TOPSoccer. These events include local dining-out occasions at restaurants such as Panera and Chipotle in Gardner, according to the announcement.
The most impactful fundraiser organized by the team is the second annual 3v3 Soccer Tournament, which will take place April 9-10 at Monty Tech. This event is open to all local high school students from surrounding communities and aims to raise funds for TOPSoccer while encouraging friendly competition and community engagement. Proceeds from the tournament will be shared between the winners and TOPSoccer, helping to expand the program’s reach, according to the announcement.
Creating a supportive community
TOPSoccer is about more than just playing soccer. It emphasizes the importance of teamwork and community, striving to create an environment where every child has the opportunity to reach their potential. Through SkillsUSA, students are dedicated to making a positive impact and demonstrating that every effort counts, according to the announcement.
For more information about TOPSoccer, the Monty Tech SkillsUSA Community Service Team or upcoming events, contact Waylon Letarte at w.letarte106.
This story was created by Kimberly Green, KGreen, with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more atcm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.
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David J. Ferreira
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