This weekend, the fourth annual U.S. AMP Champ amputee soccer tournament descended on Long Island, turning the SUSA Sports Complex in Islip into a vibrant arena of adaptive athleticism.
A weekend of competition and camaraderie
More than 30 athletes, each navigating the field with specialized prosthetic limbs, gathered to contest matches that blend speed, strategy and sheer determination.
The event is a collaboration between the American Amputee Soccer Association and Move United, which together supplied new adaptive equipment to three competitors, underscoring a commitment to inclusive sport.
“The social challenges of disability can be harder than the physical ones,” said Nico Calabria, a veteran player who has become a voice for the community. “When we step onto the pitch, we’re judged by our performance and character, not by our differences.”
Organizers have opened the gates to spectators, urging the public to attend and cheer for the teams that embody resilience and teamwork. The tournament will run throughout the weekend, offering a rare chance to witness adaptive soccer at its most competitive.
Beyond the scores, the gathering serves as a powerful reminder that belonging and support can be found in the most unexpected places, forging connections that extend far beyond the final whistle.