In the highlands of Santa Cruz, Bolivia, a group of women is turning adversity into ambition. Ten South American nations have gathered for an intensive training camp ahead of the 2027 Women’s Amputee Football World Cup, a tournament that will be staged in Poland two years from now.
The participants, all missing one or both legs, have arrived without prosthetic limbs and rely on crutches to navigate the pitch. Their preparation covers balance, coordination, ball control, tactical drills and the specific rules that govern amputee soccer, under the guidance of the World Amputee Football Federation in partnership with local authorities and non‑profits.
Coaching and Community Support
Among the coaches is Amie Donathan, a veteran of the U.S. Women’s National Amputee Soccer Team, who brings decades of experience to the sidelines. Her presence underscores the growing international interest in a sport that, despite its niche status, is gaining traction across continents.
Lidia Mayser, president of the sports council for the Santa Cruz region, sees the camp as a catalyst for a broader vision: establishing a national amputee football federation in Bolivia that could nurture talent and promote inclusion.
Dreams of Representation
One of the athletes, 50‑year‑old mother of six Filomena Luna, lost her leg at age eleven. She now dreams of representing Bolivia on the world stage, a goal that fuels her daily drills and inspires teammates.
The inaugural Women’s Amputee Football World Cup took place in 2024, with Colombia emerging as champions. Organizers hope the 2027 edition in Poland will build on that momentum, showcasing the resilience and passion of female amputees worldwide.