First Person: Football Dream Alive in Gaza Despite ‘Constant Fire’

In the midst of ongoing conflict and despair, a young footballer from Gaza, Mohamed Abu Jalda, clings to his dream of becoming a professional player. Despite feeling as though he is "dying every day," he remains determined to keep his passion for football alive while living "under constant fire" in a war-torn region.

Currently residing in a camp for displaced people after fleeing his home, Abu Jalda practices on the beaches of Al-Mawasi in Rafah, located in the southern Gaza Strip. His words, shared with UN News’s Ziad Taleb, highlight the challenges and aspirations of young athletes facing unimaginable circumstances.

A Dream Deferred by War

"I am Mohamed Abu Jalda, a player for the Rafah Services Club, a football team competing in the first division in Gaza," he states, reflecting on his identity as a young athlete. “I had a big ambition to become a great football player, like those outside the Gaza Strip, but the war has delayed my dreams and my life."

At just 20 years old, Abu Jalda dreams of turning professional, yet the realities of living in a conflict zone continue to thwart his aspirations. “Every day I feel like I’m dying; may God give us patience to endure this life,” he expresses, underlining the emotional toll the situation has taken on him and others in Gaza.

Originally from Rafah, Abu Jalda now calls the Shaboura camp for displaced people in Al-Mawasi home. "It’s been five months since I was moved there," he explains, reflecting on the disruption of his life and the loss of stability.

Finding Solace on the Beach

Despite the challenges, Abu Jalda tries to find moments to play football. "Whenever I find some free time and feel like playing, I head to the beach—the only place where I can play," he reveals. The beach has become a sanctuary for him, a temporary escape from the chaos surrounding him. However, the bombing continues in Rafah, a constant reminder of the dangers that permeate his daily existence.

“We were displaced, and no one came to look for us,” he laments, conveying a sense of abandonment. “I want my voice to reach the world.” Abu Jalda's plea encapsulates the desperation felt by many in Gaza, where their dreams are overshadowed by violence and instability.

An Unyielding Spirit

Abu Jalda reflects on his journey as a footballer and questions why he cannot pursue his dream like others around the world. “What makes me different? Why can’t I become a football player? I have ears like them, a nose like them, and feet like them; there is nothing different.” His words resonate with a sense of equality and ambition that transcends borders.

Yet, the war has deprived him of opportunities. “Before the war, I was physically fit, but now things have changed due to the displacement we are living through,” he shares, acknowledging how conflict has affected not just his living conditions but also his physical training.

Despite these setbacks, Abu Jalda remains steadfast in his pursuit of football. “I try to train every three days on the beach to fulfill my ambition,” he says, emphasizing his determination to improve his skills and keep hope alive. He believes that he has the right to aspire to become a professional footballer, just like anyone else.

“I hope that God grants me success to become a football player,” he states earnestly. His pride in being from Gaza shines through as he expresses his desire to represent the Palestinian national team. “Let them test me, and I will show all the skills I have in football,” he declares with confidence.

A Voice for the Voiceless

Abu Jalda's story is not just about personal ambition; it reflects the broader struggles of many young athletes in conflict zones who face adversity while trying to pursue their dreams. His resilience and passion for football serve as a reminder of the power of hope amid despair.

As he trains on the beach, Abu Jalda embodies the spirit of countless individuals who refuse to let their circumstances define them. His dedication to the sport, even in the face of overwhelming challenges, is an inspiration to many. He continues to practice, believing that one day his efforts will bear fruit and that his dreams will be realized.

In sharing his journey, Abu Jalda aims to shed light on the struggles faced by athletes in Gaza and the importance of dreams in the face of adversity. His story emphasizes the human spirit's resilience and the unwavering desire to pursue one’s passion, regardless of the obstacles that may arise.

Mohamed Abu Jalda stands as a symbol of hope, representing the dreams of many young individuals in Gaza. His commitment to football, despite living under the shadow of conflict, showcases the indomitable spirit that exists within those who strive for a better future.

As he continues to train and dream, Abu Jalda reminds us all that passion and perseverance can shine through even in the darkest times. His voice, along with the voices of countless others, echoes the longing for peace and opportunity, urging the world to recognize their aspirations and the potential for greatness that lies within them.

In a world where dreams are often stifled by circumstance, Abu Jalda’s story serves as a testament to the power of hope and the relentless pursuit of one’s passions.