A LETTER TO YOU, FROM CP MEN’S NATIONAL TEAM PLAYER, JOHN SULLIVAN

Like you, I take immense pride in being a part of U.S. Soccer and helping to grow the game across this country. Did you know that U.S. Soccer is continuing to grow opportunities beyond the traditional 11-a-side game with its Extended National Teams (ENTs)? 

That is why we are asking you to donate to our 2023 Giving Tuesday campaign and help us meet our goal of raising $85,000 by the end of November 28th! Donations by leaders like yourself will help ensure that players with disabilities continue to have opportunities to play at the highest level.

My journey to the Cerebral Palsy Men's National Team (CPMNT) began when I suffered a traumatic brain injury as a baby, resulting in severe impairment to the entire left side of my body. Although I had to overcome the physical challenges of my disability as a kid, I found my passion of playing soccer early. I worked my way up from a grassroots rec program, to earning a spot on the local club team, to making the varsity squad of my high school team.

I had never met another person with my disability, let alone one who played soccer, until I found the US CPMNT in 2017. I came into training camp and was immediately taken back by the camaraderie I felt, just because of our collective experience of living with similar disabilities. I was not up to the skill or fitness level of the rest of the team, but I worked as hard as I could to eventually be named the 2022 CP Men's Player of the year. Now, I couldn't imagine where my life would be without this team. My teammates are not only that, but my chosen family as well.

It is thanks to people like you, making donations to the Extended National Teams, that allow for other young kids with disabilities to discover their full potential and live experiences like mine. 

Your donation will directly impact current and future soccer players, so it is never too early or late to donate. Consider donating early by visiting our Giving Tuesday early donation page or sending your family and friends to our Giving Tuesday page on November 28th and make an immediate impact.

I hope you have a great Thanksgiving, and we look forward to seeing your support on November 28th!

JOHN sullivan

U.S. Cerebral Palsy Men’s National Team Player

2022 U.S. Soccer CP Male Player of the Year, presented by Degree Deodorant