Four of The Arc of Spokane Clients Shine with USL Spokane Impact

Spokane, Wash. - Spokane’s soccer community has a new reason to cheer! USL Spokane Impact, the newest addition to the USL Spokane lineup and affiliated with Project Inspire, is breaking ground by fielding a team composed of athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Among its inaugural lineup are four clients from The Arc of Spokane, each bringing their own unique skills, determination, and team spirit to the pitch.

James McCormack and Tim Kennedy (Avista Investment Recovery Center), Anna McCoy (Community Center), and Donald Sommer (Individual Employment) are on the Impact roster.

James McCormack

Donald Sommer

Jared Bradshaw, Director of Inclusive Community Programs, said “This is more than just a game – it’s a movement. Spokane Impact is showing our community what true inclusion looks like, and we’re honored to see our clients leading the way.”

McCormack, known for his quick attention to detail and collaborative nature, naturally gravitates toward uplifting those around him. He is the kind of teammate who doesn’t just excel at his own responsibilities – whether operating a forklift of executing plays on the soccer field – but also celebrates and encourages the strengths of others.

That same generosity of spirit is already making its mark with Spokane Impact. At a recent practice, McCormack shared his thoughts about joining the team and preparing for their upcoming matches in Colorado. His enthusiasm was unmistakable.

“I can’t wait! I’m very excited because I’ve never played before. This is my first time, so we’ll see!” McCormack said.

Pamela Norr, CEO of The Arc of Spokane, captured the significance of Spokane Impact’s addition to the USL Spokane lineup. She stated “The Spokane Impact team is going to change the world of soccer. It is amazing to have four members of The Arc community on the team. We are thrilled to support this inclusive new venture in bringing inclusive competitive sports to our region!”

The Impact’s mission goes beyond wins and goals – it’s about representation, inclusion, and showing Spokane the power of possibility. For The Arc, seeing four of its own step onto the pitch is a testament to what can happen when opportunities are open to all.

Spokane Impact will play its first games in Colorado Springs, Colo. on Saturday, August 23. The first games hosted in Spokane will take place September 12-14 at the HUB Sports Complex. Project Inspire is looking for volunteers to assist with the merch booth, meet and greets, shuttles and more. If you are interested in volunteering, contact hello@projectinspireusa.org.

About The Arc of Spokane
The Arc of Spokane is a chapter of The Arc of Washington and The Arc of the United States and joins over 600 chapters across the country on the front lines to ensure that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families have the support and services they need to be fully engaged in their communities.

For questions, please contact The Arc of Spokane at 509-789-8326 or email info@arc-spokane.org.