By Joerg Bergman
Kicking the ball like other boys was an unattainable dream for Ludwig (13) from Mellensee (Teltow-Fläming).
The 13-year-old from Brandenburg cannot walk because of a congenital disability. He still has one goal: Ludwig wants to become a professional footballer!
In August, Ludwig Leineweber from Mellensee (Teltow-Fläming) will compete for the first time in the EPFA Cup (European Powerchair Football Association) in Geneva – and kick in a wheelchair!
Wheeler soccer player Ludwig Leineweber (13) and his father Arnold (45) Photo: Joerg Bergmann
“Ludwig was always confined to a wheelchair,” says his father Arnold (45). The student has been playing for SV Motor Mickten in Dresden for five years. Twice a week, father and son travel to the Saxon state capital for training.
When Ludwig was one year old, he was diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy. The nerve disease affects the muscles in the limbs, those affected cannot walk and can hardly move their arms.
Ludwig’s father: “That never prevented us from being active and shaping our lives together with our son.” The fact that his boy can now go to the EPFA Cup, a kind of World Cup for wheelchair footballers, is thanks to a fundraiser.
Brandenburg
Because the family could not pay for the wheelchair needed for the tournament (Strike Force Sport: 13,000 euros). This was organized by comrades from the local volunteer fire brigade, friends, colleagues from his parents and many unknown donors in just 14 days.
Ludwig on the BZ: “I still can’t believe that a dream has come true in such a short time. I’m just speechless.”
A total of 16,125 euros was raised, and the excess money will now benefit the club for the equipment and the trip to Geneva.
