“The goal of USDFA is to ensure that athletes with dwarfism have a place to compete, grow, and excel in the sport of soccer.”

About Dwarf Soccer

Our Purpose

In the United States there are currently several soccer associations for players with disabilities, however there had never been an organization that focused solely on soccer for those with dwarfism. For many individuals with dwarfism, traditional able-bodied soccer presents unique challenges — from differences in stride length and limb proportions to increased injury risk and mobility concerns. These barriers often lead athletes to leave the sport early or never participate at all. Our goal in the development of USDFA is to bridge that gap – through our programs, partnerships, and advocacy efforts we want to create an environment where dwarf athletes can develop their skills, and stay engaged in the sport they love. In 2025 USDFA achieved a major milestone by gaining official membership as part of the U.S. Soccer Federation, marking a significant step forward for the sport’s growth and recognition. With this achievement, USDFA aims to, kickstart its recruitment and player ID efforts, establishing regional training groups, as well as hosting camps to identify players for both domestic and international events. As USDFA builds momentum we are seeking partnerships and sponsorships from organizations that share its vision of inclusion and expanding opportunities for athletes of short stature.

Our Mission: To create a national soccer organization for players with dwarfism, and to establish Women’s and Men’s National Teams that compete in domestic and international events.

Our Vision:

USDFA’s vision is a world where dwarfism is not a barrier to soccer participation, and to establish a dedicated platform for athletes with dwarfism to play competitive soccer on a level playing field.  

Program Goals for 2025

  • Develop our player pool, and grow our numbers to over 100 eligible players

  • Grow our women’s program and host our first training camp and international friendly

  • Form regional teams to improve access and reducing travel barriers for players and families

  • Host our first annual USDFA camp

  • Player ID and National Team Selection for the 2025 Copa America Championships in Paraguay

Sponsorships

As a grassroots organization, we rely on generous supporters to make it all possible. The primary purpose of fundraising for USDFA is to make dwarf soccer accessible to all athletes by covering essential costs like field rentals, coaching, camps, tournaments, uniforms, and team startup expenses. Funds also support critical administrative needs such as insurance, background checks, and software—ensuring safe, inclusive, and affordable participation nationwide. USDFA operates under a 501(c)(3) nonprofit designation, making all donations tax-exempt. If you’d like your gift to support a specific team or program, simply note it on the donation form — 100% of your contribution will be directed as requested.


Contact us for more information, to join in the player pool, to sponsor our teams, to ask questions and to support us!







 

USDFA Board of Directors:

Zach Shattuck, Executive Director

Zach Roloff, President

Mike Edwards, Vice President

Shonna Schroedl, Secretary

Joel Silvus, Treasurer

Scott Welliver & Michelle Welliver, Website & Women’s Team Coordinators

Miguel Sanz, Technical Director

Matt Krywonos, Technical & At-Large

  • Co Founder and USDFA President

  • Co Founder and Executive Director

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