Melvin Coleman, a prominent figure in amputee football from the United States, has returned to Liberia for a visit that is already making a significant impact on athletes, sports administrators, and advocates for disability sports across the nation.
Coleman, who excels with the United States National Amputee Football Team, is reconnecting with his Liberian roots while collaborating with the Liberia Amputee Football Federation to enhance the development of the sport in the country.
In an exclusive discussion, Coleman characterized his trip as a deeply personal journey. “It”s been great being back home,” he expressed. “Enjoying the food, the weather, and spending time with family and friends. Liberia will always be home for me.”
Coleman”s Journey
The path that led Coleman to the heights of amputee football is marked by resilience. After moving to the United States, he faced the life-altering challenge of losing a leg to cancer in 2016, a devastating event for a young man who thrived in the vibrant playgrounds of Monrovia. “I was very active growing up in Liberia playing basketball, football, everything,” he reflected. “After losing my leg, there was a long period where I felt like I couldn”t do any of those things again.”
His fortunes shifted when he discovered adaptive soccer, a form of the game played on crutches without prosthetics, which offered him a new perspective on life. “It changed my life,” Coleman stated. “It gave me my confidence back and allowed me to play the sport I”ve always loved.”
As a lifelong supporter of Arsenal, Coleman noted that football helped him reclaim a sense of normalcy and independence that cancer had taken away.
Bridging Cultures
While proudly representing the United States on the international stage, Coleman underscored that his achievements serve as a platform to demonstrate that disability should not be seen as a limitation. “To represent something bigger than myself is a blessing,” he noted.
Despite his success, Coleman maintains a strong admiration for the Liberia National Amputee Football Team, which has consistently earned accolades for the nation by winning multiple African titles. He described the Liberian “Lone Star” amputees as an “elite” squad: “They”re strong, competitive, and athletic. They”ve accomplished so much with very limited resources. They deserve far more recognition than they currently receive.”
A Call for Support
During his visit, Coleman has worked to facilitate equipment donations through international partnerships. However, he emphasized that reliance on charity alone is insufficient for the sport”s sustainability and that institutional reform is essential. Coleman revealed his intention to meet with the Minister of Youth and Sports to advocate for increased inclusion and the integration of disability sports into national programs, including the National County Sports Meet.
Message of Resilience
For young Liberians facing similar challenges, Coleman offered a simple yet powerful message: resilience is crucial. “Don”t give up. Keep trying,” he advised. “You never know your true potential until you try something new. This is not the end; it”s an opportunity to adapt and keep living.”
As Coleman continues his visit, the amputee football community recognizes him as more than a visiting athlete; he embodies the belief that with self-belief and opportunity, limitations can be transformed into a global platform for success.
