From an early age, my parents instilled in me the importance of learning and self-reliance. They ensured that I had access to a quality education, not just academically, but also in navigating the world as a blind person. They introduced me to Braille, assistive technology, and problem-solving skills that empowered me to thrive in a sighted world. Their vision for me went beyond academics. They also believed that a fulfilling childhood included play, fun, and adventure. That is how I was introduced to soccer.
Soccer became more than just a game. It became a passion and a way for me to develop confidence, teamwork, and resilience. My parents encouraged me to participate, fostering my love for the sport, while helping me refine my orientation and mobility skills by relying on my senses and echo localization.
Blind soccer players use echolocation to navigate the field and track the ball. The ball contains items inside, like ball bearings, that produce sound when it moves, allowing players to determine its location through auditory cues. Additionally, players rely on verbal guidance from coaches and teammates to orient themselves and strategize their movements. These heightened senses enable them to play effectively without relying on sight. It was through soccer that I learned that blindness was not a barrier to movement, competition, or joy. Today, I proudly wear jersey number 11 as part of the U.S. Men’s Blind Soccer Team, and aspire to compete with them in the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles.
As I grew older, these foundational experiences shaped me into the person I am today. I pursued higher education, earning a master’s degree in U.S. History, and I have dedicated 18 years of my career to teaching assistive technology at the Miami Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired. This field allows me to empower others with visual disabilities, showing them that independence is not just possible, it is a right.
Beyond my professional life, I am also a father to two beautiful children. Parenthood has given me a new perspective on the values my parents instilled in me. Just as they nurtured my potential despite the odds, I strive to provide my children with the same love, encouragement, and belief that they can achieve anything.
I’m also proud to be part of an interdisciplinary team at the Miami Lighthouse teaching soccer to blind children, helping them develop strategies emphasizing cognitive awareness paired with physical activity, and the critical importance of communication with teammates and coaches. Developing these skills at a young age provides a foundation, as they learn life skills such as camaraderie, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
This comprehensive program is the first of its kind to offer programming starting at age one, and I’m thrilled to help introduce the sport to the next generation of blind children ages one to 22 years old. My journey from a blind child to a father, educator, and advocate would not have been possible without the unwavering support of my parents. They gave me the tools to navigate life on my own terms, and today, I pay that forward by ensuring others have the same opportunities.
Growing in momentum, blind soccer offers the blind and low-vision community the opportunity to get involved in a fast-paced, physical, and technical game. The growing popularity of blind soccer is seen through its inclusion in the Paralympics and, most recently this past November, the International Blind Sports Federation’s 2024 USA Blind Soccer International Championship Game.
Blindness was never the obstacle. Limiting expectations were.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Blinded at the age of three. 21, Oseas moved to the United States without knowing English. He embraced the tools available to learn the language, complete his college education, and ultimately earn a master’s degree in U.S. History. He is a Senior Assistive Technology Specialist at the Miami Lighthouse for the Blind where he helps individuals with visual disabilities navigate technology and achieve greater independence. He is a dedicated athlete and a member of the U.S. Association of Blind Athletes soccer team. He works with the Comprehensive Soccer Initiative as part of an interdisciplinary team teaching children ages 1-22 who are blind to play soccer. Through this initiative, he helps create opportunities for young athletes to develop their skills, confidence, and love for the game. Committed to breaking barriers in accessibility and inclusion, he continues to advocate for equal opportunities in education, sports, and technology.
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