When the Warlick family unveiled a new indoor soccer complex in Cookeville, Tennessee, they did more than cut a ribbon — they opened a door for countless youngsters who have long searched for a place to play.
The facility, named “The 11,” is a non‑profit venture dedicated to offering an inclusive athletic environment for people of all abilities, with a special focus on those with developmental and sensory challenges.
Elizabeth Warlick, co‑founder of the project, explained that the idea sprang from the memory of her son Joseph, whose jersey bore the number 11 and whose relentless spirit inspired the family to create a space where obstacles could be turned into opportunities.
A Vision Rooted in Resilience
Joseph Warlick’s own journey — born premature, navigating sensory processing issues and attention‑deficit challenges — shaped the center’s philosophy, which seeks to help participants overcome personal hurdles through sport.
Drawing on her background as a physical therapist and her experience launching a local TOP Soccer program, Elizabeth highlighted the scarcity of accessible resources in the Upper Cumberland region, prompting the family to fill that gap.
The complex features multiple turf fields that can be rented privately, while also hosting affordable leagues, open‑gym sessions and community‑wide events designed to keep costs low and participation high.
Local partners, including the Cookeville‑Putnam Chamber of Commerce, have rallied behind the initiative, providing logistical support and helping to spread the word throughout the region.
For Elizabeth, the most rewarding moments come when she watches the special‑needs community take to the field, hearing laughter echo across the indoor arena and seeing confidence grow with each pass.
The Warlick family hopes that “The 11” will become a model for inclusive sport, showing that with community backing and a clear purpose, barriers can be broken and new possibilities created for every child.