Yona Sabri Ellon relies on his keen sense of hearing on the football field since he cannot see the ball. Maneuvering past opponents with precision, he recently scored a crucial goal for South Sudan’s blind football team, edging them closer to their goal of competing at the 2028 Paralympics in California.
The 22-year-old forward proudly represents the “Bright Stars” of South Sudan, who made their international debut at a blind football tournament in Uganda. Ellon’s aspirations reach beyond the game itself, aiming to challenge misconceptions about blind individuals in his country.
Blind football, utilizing a bell inside the ball for player orientation, requires constant communication among the five-a-side teams. South Sudan’s team, founded five years ago with just two members, has grown under the leadership of coach Simon Madol Akol to include 40 players from diverse backgrounds.
Ellon, who lost his sight to glaucoma at a young age, found renewed purpose through the “Bright Stars,” dispelling doubts about his education and passion for football. Despite numerous challenges, including inadequate playing fields and limited resources, the team’s resilience and dedication shine through.
The recent tournament in Kampala, featuring teams from Uganda and Zimbabwe, offered a platform for the South Sudanese players to showcase their talent and determination. Supporters, including Jalia Nankwanga, a visually impaired law student, found inspiration in the players’ courage and skill, fostering a sense of pride within the disabled community.
In a gripping final match against Uganda, South Sudan emerged victorious with a 3-0 win, propelling them closer to Paralympic qualification. Coach Akol emphasized the significance of participation in such events, underscoring the team’s symbolic triumphs and their potential to foster unity and peace in South Sudan.