BEYOND DARKNESS: THE JOURNEY OF A GOALBALL CHAMPION
WHAT IS GOALBALL?
Goalball is like dodgeball’s quirky, blindfolded cousin that nobody saw coming—literally. Designed for visually impaired athletes, it's a sport where everyone, including sighted players, wears blackout goggles to level the playing field. The game is played with a heavy, bell-filled ball, and the objective is simple: throw the ball into the opposing team’s goal while using your ears like a bat out of hell to track its location. Picture this: a silent court, three players on each team diving, rolling, and blocking shots like action heroes in a slow-motion movie. It’s a wild, intense mix of strategy, agility, and listening skills that proves you don’t need to see to be an absolute baller.
MEET MANUEL PUMA!
Manuel Puma is a 23-year-old legally blind Goalball athlete. He lives and trains in New York City with the New York Empire Goalball team. Being visually impaired from birth, his discovery of Goalball changed his life. The sport provided him with a sense of community, purpose, and an outlet to compete on a level playing field with other visually impaired athletes. Manuel’s dedication to the game has made him a standout player, and his relentless work ethic and passion for Goalball have turned him into an inspiring figure both on and off the court. For Manuel, Goalball is not just a sport; it's a lifeline that empowers him to push beyond his limits and challenge the boundaries of what's possible.
WHY ME?
This documentary on Goalball, is a natural extension and evolution of my creative practice. As an athlete who played Goalball in high school and served as the team captain, I have a deep personal connection to the sport and its community. This documentary allows me to combine my passion for visual storytelling with my love for Goalball, highlighting the sport's impact on blind and visually impaired athletes. It also provides an opportunity to raise awareness about accessibility and inclusion in sports, a cause close to my heart. Being a visually impaired filmmaker and photographer has shaped my journey in profound ways. The challenges I face have fueled my determination and creativity, pushing me to find unique solutions and perspectives. This documentary is a testament to my passion for storytelling and my commitment to advocating for accessibility and inclusion. Success, for me, is about creating impactful art, gaining professional recognition, and inspiring others to overcome their own challenges. Despite the obstacles, I remain dedicated to my craft, continually evolving and growing as an artist.
