By Alhassan Bangura
The Sierra Leone Polio Football Club situated at Cole Town in the Western Area Rural District, Waterloo has joined the rest of the world in celebrating this year’s International Day of Disability with the theme: “Inclusivity & Diversity In Society.”
They marked the day with a wonderful football gala competition which was played between the Sierra Leone Polio Football Club versus the Sierra Star Amputee Football Club from Freetown on Wednesday 3rd. December, 2025.
As the world comes together to celebrate the International Day of Disability on 3rd December, 2025, Sierra Leone’s Polio Football Club joins in the festivities with a heartwarming match between two teams representing two different physical disabilities. This year holds a special meaning for the club as they dedicate the event to their late CEO and coach, Lamin Vidal Koroma, who passed away earlier in the year. The match, held at the Baptist Playing Field in Waterloo, was a display of resilience, determination, and most importantly, unity.
The day started with a beautiful tribute to the late CEO by his wife, Madam Fudia Kamara. She spoke lengthily about his love for the game and his vision to create a platform for people with disabilities to showcase their talents. This passion was evident in the team’s captain, James Lomeh, who is also the Captain of the Sierra Leone National Amputee Football Team. His inspiring speech highlighted the importance of inclusion and the power of sports to break down barriers.
The game itself was a thrilling and emotional experience for both players and spectators. The Polio Football Club, representing Waterloo, faced off against the Sierra Star Amputee Football Club, representing Freetown. It was a close match, with both teams putting superb performances in their best efforts to secure the win. However, it was the Polio Football Club who emerged victorious with a one-nil score lines (1:0).
The star player of the Polio Football Club, Sam Pessima, was a key figure in the team’s success. He showed exceptional skills and determination on the field, proving that anything is possible with hard work and dedication. Pessima, who has been playing with the Polio Football Club for the past years, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to showcase his talents and the support of the late CEO, who believed in him from the very beginning.
The match was attended by hundreds of fans and sympathizers, who came together to honor the late CEO and show their support for the teams. The atmosphere was filled with joy, excitement, and a sense of community as people from all walks of life came together to celebrate the abilities and strengths of individuals with disabilities.
The current Technical Coach of the Polio Football Club, Daniel Palmer, a long serving player of the team also gave a heartfelt speech at the end of the match, thanking everyone for their unwavering support and dedication to the team. He also emphasized the importance of creating more opportunities for people with disabilities in the sports industry and throughout society.
Other Members including Option James, Kelfala, Alie Badara Kamara aka Dangote also made meaningful contributions towards the success of the game.
As the day came to a close, it was evident that the event was more than just a football match. It was a celebration of inclusivity, resilience, and the power of sports to bring people together. The late CEO’s vision has truly come to life through the Sierra Leone Polio Football Club, and his legacy will continue to inspire and impact the lives of individuals with disabilities for years to come.
Furthermore, the International Day of Disability was a day to remember for the Sierra Leone Polio Football Club.
