A Football Report

Rollaball: capturing the Ghanaian skate soccer team

Skate soccer is a version of soccer played on (makeshift) skateboards with hands acting as their feet. If you had heard about it before watching the video above or reading the last twenty words, then you’re in the vast minority (but well done). Currently in the process of being made, Rollaball is an inspiring documentary on the Ghanaian skate soccer team. 

Right, so let’s address the whole “you can use your hands, but it’s still called soccer” issue. What validates the use of hands in their version of the beautiful game is that each member of the team has been affected by the debilitating disease polio. And via this disease, each member has suffered the loss of usage of their legs. The documentary follows the members of the team as they live on the streets making their living, supporting their families, and still trying to have moments of happiness after polio has left them to fend for themselves.

The filmmakers are asking for donations on Kickstarter to get the documentary going. With backing from several organizations and professional footballers already, this footage unveils a look on the lives of Africans who have had devastation take over their lives. With a little more support, this film could be available across the world and possibly even bring a new game to the Paralympics. [Posted by Chi Huynh]