Amputee soccer is reversing the negative perception of amputee victims from Sierra Leone's 10 year civil war. Their success as athletes has transformed them from social outcasts to victors.
The use of amputations as a weapon of fear & intimadation was a common practice during the 10 year Civil war that ended in early 2002. It is believed that 21% (6,000-10,000) of the world's amputees now live in Sierra Leone. In a country that has been turned into an economic vacuum, these amputees live alarmingly below the poverty line and are forced to live as outcasts. In Sierra Leone, people living with disabilities are often overlooked and considered negatively in society.
Currently, the game of soccer is allowing 120 players on five teams across the country the opportunity to become more self sufficient. It has improved their self esteem and self confidence and aided their general health and energy levels.
Through the game of soccer as many as 300 amputee players will be able to practice their talents in sports for community peace promotions in the country, as well addressing the problem of basic needs such as education and skills training.
This project has provided additional documentation in a PDF file (projdoc.pdf).
