Success Stories of Athletes with Disabilities Overcoming Limitations for Achieving Achievements

Limitations are not barriers to achieving success. Proof of this is that athletes with disabilities can also strive for excellence.

With the spirit, perseverance, and commitment to never give up, three Indonesian athletes with disabilities have made their way to various prestigious sports competitions. What is the story of their struggles as athletes with disabilities?

Zannika Zarrel, 15 Years Old, Amputee Football

Zannika Zarrel had her right leg amputated below the knee. However, Zarrel, as she is commonly known, can still excel in amputee football.

“I started as a goalkeeper because I was still scared, but eventually I enjoyed it more and became brave enough to play as a forward. From just playing around at home, I wanted to become an athlete because I believed I could,” said Zarrel.

Although she initially struggled to keep up with her opponents and lacked mastery of soccer techniques, she never gave up on trying and learning.

“It turns out that amputee football is quite challenging. At first, I didn’t play properly and it was chaotic, especially with using crutches for running, which requires adaptation. But after practicing frequently, I gradually got used to it,” she continued.

Zarrel also admitted that soccer makes her happier. She is proud and touched to be able to excel in this sport. This year, Zarrel is chasing her target to join the national team and compete in the Asia Cup.

“To my fellow athletes, never lose your spirit. We can overcome our limitations and not let them become obstacles.”

Scolastika Nadya Valentin, 20 Years Old, Blind Judo

Being visually impaired is not easy. During school, Valen once felt low self-esteem. There were so many art lessons taught, but she didn’t excel in any of them. However, once she got involved in sports, her path started to open up.

“I was sad because I couldn’t play music or sing at school. But after joining blind judo, my self-confidence started to grow. I can excel in sports, not just in the arts,” said Valen.

The journey of becoming a judo athlete was full of challenges and felt heavy at the beginning. Valen had to memorize various throwing techniques, locks, and holds, in addition to undergoing rigorous physical training.

“The training was very tough to the point of fainting frequently. But eventually, I was able to overcome it. The key was getting enough rest, sufficient sleep, and maintaining a healthy diet,” she explained.

As a passionate blind judo athlete, Valen wants to make her youth more meaningful and bring pride to her parents. This year, Valen will depart to Cambodia to participate in the ASEAN Para Games 2023.

Nicodemus Saul Yandewoa, 30 Years Old, Blind Judo

Sharing his experience as a blind judo athlete, Saul admits that he faced many difficulties at the beginning.

“There were times when I felt desperate because I was tired, my body was in pain, my techniques were wrong, and I couldn’t master the movements. But my coach was patient with me and I was also encouraged by the people around me. I used all of that as motivation, and by God’s grace, I became a champion,” said Saul.

To improve his judo skills, Saul trained regularly for a week. He went through physical training and technical training.

“I feel that judo is great for the visually impaired. It helps strengthen my senses and makes me more courageous in outdoor activities,” he explained.

Through this sport, Saul hopes to have his income, not rely on his parents, and become an independent individual.

Saul also has a message for his fellow athletes with disabilities, especially the visually impaired, to keep their spirits up and keep fighting in their journey of life.