A Historic Step Forward for Amputee Soccer and Access to Sports in Minnesota
In May, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the historic inaugural Minnesota Amputee FC Soccer Clinic. It was an experience that left a lasting impression on me, not only as a soccer player, but also as someone who cares deeply about making sports accessible to every kid.
The clinic marked an exciting step forward for amputee soccer in Minnesota, bringing together athletes, families, coaches, volunteers, and supporters who all share the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the game. Throughout the day, participants learned new skills, built confidence, made new friendships, and showed what is possible when barriers to sports are removed.
It was exciting to participate with this inspiring group of coaches, volunteers, athletes, and families at this historic clinic.
Learning to play on one foot using forearm crutches gave me a deeper appreciation for the incredible athleticism, skill, and perseverance these players bring to the field.
One of the highlights of the day was meeting and playing alongside U.S. Men's National Amputee Soccer Team captain Nico Calabria and Minnesota Amputee FC founder Tommy Schweinitz. Both are passionate about growing the game and creating more opportunities for others to play. Seeing the impact they have on athletes and families was truly inspiring.
Getting to meet and play alongside Nico Calabria was one of the highlights of the day. Watching him generously share his time, talent, and encouragement with young athletes was inspiring, and it's something I'll always remember.
It was an honor to play alongside Minnesota Amputee FC founder Tommy Schweinitz and see firsthand the incredible impact he and his family are having by creating more opportunities for kids to experience the joy of sports.
This experience gave me a deeper understanding of what accessibility in sports really means. Our mission at Gear to Grant has always been to remove barriers so every kid has the opportunity to play, but spending the day with Minnesota Amputee FC showed me just how powerful sports can be. Soccer is about much more than winning games. It builds confidence, creates friendships, gives people a sense of belonging, and opens doors that reach far beyond the field.
I'm incredibly grateful to Minnesota Amputee FC, the American Amputee Soccer Association, Minnesota United FC, and every coach, volunteer, athlete, and family who made this historic first clinic possible. Their dedication is creating more opportunities for people across Minnesota to experience the joy of the game.
The kids at the clinic were one of the best parts of the day. Their energy, enthusiasm, and pure love for the game were inspiring.
At Gear to Grant, we believe every kid deserves the opportunity to play, and experiences like this remind me why that mission matters. I'm already looking forward to returning for the next clinic this October and continuing to support this incredible community.
Every kid deserves the opportunity to play.