By Alhassan Bangura (PRO) & Mento
Sierra Leone Polio Football Club, situated at Cole Town, Waterloo in the Western Area Rural District of Sierra Leone, has been gaining recognition for not only its exceptional football skills, but also for its inspiring journey of overcoming challenges. As the world gears up to celebrate the World Disabled Day on 3rd December, 2025, the club, founded by Lamin Vidal Koroma, is facing a difficult time due to the current economic crisis. The departure of its beloved founder on 22nd April, 2025, has only added to the woes of the team. Yet, the team continues to fight with resilience and determination, inspiring everyone who hears their story.
Founded in 2010, Sierra Leone Polio Football Club was established with a vision to promote inclusivity and provide a platform for people with disabilities to participate in sports. The club got its name from the fact that most of its players were affected by polio, a disease that has plagued Sierra Leone for decades. Despite facing various challenges, the club has been able to achieve great success in the local as well as regional tournaments.
However, the year 2025 brought a major blow to the club when its founder, Lamin Vidal Koroma, passed away. His sudden demise not only left the club members heartbroken, but also created a void that has been difficult to fill. Along with the emotional setback, the club has also been hit by the economic crisis that has affected the entire country. With limited resources and financial support, the club is struggling to keep up with training and participation in tournaments.
Despite these challenges, the members of Sierra Leone Polio Football Club are not giving up. Their passion for the sport and the cause they represent is what keeps them going. The team continues to train hard, despite the limited resources, and is determined to make their late founder proud by giving their best in every match. Their resilience and perseverance have not gone unnoticed, as they have been invited to participate in the upcoming international tournament for disabled athletes. This is a testament to the talent and determination of the team.
As Sierra Leone Polio Football Club stands on the brink of economic collapse, it is a reminder of the struggles faced by disabled individuals in the country every day. The club not only provides a platform for these individuals to showcase their talents, but also serves as a source of hope and inspiration for others with disabilities. The team’s journey is a shining example of how sports can break barriers and unite people, regardless of their abilities.
In this time of crisis, Sierra Leone Polio Football Club needs support more than ever. As the world celebrates the World Disabled Day on 3rd December, 2025, let us also take a moment to remember this remarkable team and their founder, who dreamt of a more inclusive world. Let us come together and show our support for the club by helping them overcome their economic hardship. Every small contribution can make a big difference in the lives of these determined athletes.
Sierra Leone Polio Football Club may be facing a difficult time, but it has not lost its fighting spirit. With strong determination and a community that supports them, the club is sure to rise above this economic crisis and continue to inspire others. Let us all stand with them in their journey towards success and inclusivity.
