By
Deir al-Balah, in the heart of central Gaza, has come alive with the spirit of determination and resilience as the Amal ‘Hope’ Amputee Football Championship officially begins. More than just a sporting event, the championship stands as a powerful symbol of courage for those who lost their limbs during the ongoing conflict—reminding them, and the world, that life does not end with injury; it transforms.
Football as a Path to Healing and Purpose
For many of the participating athletes, the pitch has become a place of healing, empowerment, and rediscovery. Among them is Alian Abu Sabra, who lost his leg in the war. Today, he steps onto the field not as a victim, but as a player, a role model, and a voice of encouragement for others navigating similar challenges.
His message is simple yet profound:
“Stay strong. Life continues. New chapters can begin—even after the hardest moments.”
His journey mirrors that of countless amputees across Gaza who refuse to let loss define their future.
A Tournament Built on Hope
The championship is organised under the leadership of Shadi Ali Abu Armaneh, director of the Palestinian Amputee Football Team. He describes the event as a mission to restore hope and confidence among amputees—many of whom have struggled not only with physical trauma but also with the emotional weight of displacement, pain, and loss.
Abu Armaneh highlighted that this initiative is more than competition:
It is a declaration that amputees deserve opportunities, support, and recognition. He called for local, Arab, and international organisations to stand with Gaza’s amputee athletes by offering sustained assistance, training resources, and pathways for future participation in regional and global tournaments.
Resilience Amid Hardship
In a region devastated by repeated cycles of conflict, the Amal Championship showcases the unwavering resilience of Gaza’s people. Every pass, sprint, and goal on the field reflects unparalleled determination—proof that adversity can be met with courage, unity, and belief.
The players embody a powerful message:
Hope is not passive. It is chosen, lived, and shared.
A Beacon for the Future
As the tournament unfolds, it is already leaving a deep impact—on families, spectators, and communities across Gaza. It reaffirms that sport can be a lifeline, offering structure, camaraderie, and purpose to those rebuilding their lives.
The Amal ‘Hope’ Amputee Football Championship is more than a game.
It is a testament to human strength.
A celebration of survival.
And a reminder that even in the most difficult circumstances, hope continues to grow.
-1.png "Gaza Fund (1)-1")