Haitian Amputee Soccer Team Visits North Texas
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WAXAHACHIE (CBSDFW.COM) — The temperature was cool, and the skies were partly overcast; perfect conditions for a scrimmage story of triumph at Waxahachie High School's Lumpkins stadium.
The athletes weren't students, but instead a visiting national Haitian soccer team of amputees. More than a dozen players ranging in age from 15 to 32 faced off with the schools soccer team for a friendly scrimmage.
The Haitian amputee soccer team is training in North Texas as they prepare for the Cup of America tournament in Guadalajara Mexico next week. There they will compete with other amputee teams from across the world.
Rochenel Pierre, the team's coach said his players skills prove their disabilities aren't getting in the way of their goals.
"The way they kick the ball... the way they hit the ball... the way they move -- that can show you something," said Pierre.
Everywhere they travel the players inspire people through their own stories of struggle and hope. Each amputee on the team lost their limbs as a result of injuries sustained when the catastrophic earthquake hit their impoverished island nation.
Dr. Fred Sorrells of Texas was in Haiti helping with recovery efforts when he had the idea to put the team together.
"These guys are at a whole different level than anything we have ever seen," said Dr. Sorrells about the player's spirit and determination.
For many of the players, working on the team and competing internationally not only gives them a chance to experience the world, but to show people that faith and determination are key to overcoming most any struggle.
If you would like to learn more about the team and help them, click here.
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