by Elayna Alexandra
Participating in the 2023 Amp Futbol Cup in Poland as a member of the USA Amputee Women’s Soccer team was an extraordinary and unforgettable experience that will stay with me for a lifetime. This journey was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that has had, and continues to have, a profound impact on my life and perspective. It reinforced the importance of sports and the power of playing as a team.
One of the most significant takeaways from this experience was the realization that, as an amputee, I can still pursue my lifelong dream of being an athlete. This journey answered the question that had lingered in my mind for so long: Could I ever realize my lifelong dream of excelling in sports, of pushing my body to its limits, and achieving excellence in athletics? The answer I found in Poland was a resounding “yes.” It was a powerful reminder that amputation doesn’t have to limit our ambitions or passions. In fact, it opened doors for me that I didn’t know existed.
Meeting others who had faced similar challenges and overcome them with resilience and dedication was incredibly motivating. The camaraderie and bonds formed with my fellow athletes transcended borders, languages, and backgrounds. We shared a unique understanding of each other’s journeys, creating a profound sense of unity and belonging.
Representing the United States on the international stage was an immense honor and privilege. Donning the national colors and showcasing my skills filled me with pride and a deep sense of responsibility. As amputee athletes, we are ambassadors not just for our country but also for the broader community of individuals with limb differences. It’s a moment to break down misconceptions about what a disabled body can achieve and where it belongs.
This opportunity is what allowed me to push my body to perform at its very best. It was reinforced a month later at the US National Amputee Soccer Cup in Columbus, Ohio. I had the privilege of playing with the skilled New England Revolution, and together we secured the Cup against formidable teams from New York (taking second), Colorado, and Columbus. I had the thrill of being the only woman on the New England team. Thanks Revolution, what an honor to get to play alongside you.
Perhaps the most transformative aspect of this experience was the newfound belief I have gained in myself. The challenges I faced and overcame during our trip to Poland instilled in me a profound sense of self-confidence. I realized I can achieve great things not only in sports but in all aspects of life. This newfound self-belief is a gift I will forever cherish.
As I reflect on this incredible journey, I am humbled and amazed by the entire experience. It has left an indelible mark on my life and has instilled in me a determination to push myself even harder, to strive for continuous improvement, and to outperform my own expectations the next time I have the privilege of representing my country in amputee soccer. It has reaffirmed my belief in the power of the human spirit, the importance of pursuing one’s dreams, and the boundless potential that lies within each of us, regardless of our physical/and or mental challenges.
This journey has altered the direction of my life. A girl who used to call all sports that involved a ball “ball sports” has fallen in love with football (soccer) because of its connecting power. The game breaks down boundaries and borders, bringing together people for a common goal to play at their best. This experience has shown me the true power of sports and the importance of playing with a team, transcending physical limitations, and uniting individuals from all walks of life to create a deep sense of belonging.
Elayna Alexandra is a life coach, strategist, and writer. Visit her online at elaynaalexandra.com or on Instagram at @elaynaalexandra.