As the 5th edition of the World Winners Cup kicks off in Alghero, I’m reminded of my exploits at the maiden edition in Alanya, Turkey. Watching my team, Kebbi Beach Soccer Club, take on the world’s best was a defining moment. It taught me that the beautiful game isn’t just about kicking sand or scoring goals, but about pushing boundaries, testing limits and embracing challenges.
That tournament, where Kebbi Beach Soccer Club’s gritty determination and skillful plays held their own against European powerhouses like Levante and Napoli Patron was a watershed moment, a testament to the team’s resilience and unwavering spirit. Witnessing underdogs push the best clubs to the limit, proved that with courage and conviction, even the most daunting challenges can be overcome. This realisation is reinforced as I stood on the edge of the cliff preparing to soar through the skies, I knew that the lessons learned on the beach with uneven surface, adapting to “turbulence” and finding strength in vulnerability would stay with me forever.
The World Winners Cup Experience
The 2019 World Winners Cup was Kebbi’s first international outing, and we were determined to make a statement. As the only African club side in the tournament, we faced stiff competition, but the young, brave players rose to the challenge. We took on Levante (Spain), Germany’s Real Münster (2022 champion) and the defending champions; Napoli Patron of Greece. Though we didn’t win the tournament, we didn’t finish at the bottom either. But that experience sparked something special.
Building on their momentum, the club participated in the 2023 edition of the tournament in Algehero, Italy, further solidifying their position as Africa’s number one club. Their impressive performance also earned them a coveted spot among the world’s elite, with their sights firmly set on breaking into the top 10 global rankings.
With the rush of competition still fresh in my mind, I sought new thrills in Alanya, leading me to paragliding :))
Paragliding: The Unexpected Adventure
As I explored Alanya’s stunning Kleopatra Beach, I couldn’t help but notice the colourful “flying carpets” soaring above; Paragliding!, an extreme sport I had only admired from afar, was now within my grasp. Without hesitation, I signed up, paid the €50 fee, and opted for the €300 photo/video package, a smart move by the operators, who wouldn’t want to capture flying moments?
The ascent uphill was lengthy, but the anticipation built excitement. Strapped to my guide (pilot), we took off, and the adrenaline rush was instant. The world expanded, and my fears dissolved. For those few, fleeting moments in the sky, soaring above the seashores, it felt like an Eagle.
As I glided serenely above the Mediterranean, I realised that paragliding wasn’t just an adventure – it was a metaphor for life. We often stand at the edge of our comfort zones, hesitant to leap. But what if we do? What if we seize those opportunities, just as I did with beach soccer and paragliding.
The Next Chapter: Skydiving
Hooked on the experience, I began to crave an even greater adrenaline challenge: skydiving!
Now, my sights are set on skydiving – jumping out of a plane, with only the atmospheric air as my guide. Google defines it as “transiting from the skies to the surface of Earth with the aid of gravity, involving the control of speed during the descent.” The thoughts are intoxicating.
Will I take another leap? Absolutely. I’m sure executing a bicycle kick in the sky would be breathtaking ;))
As the world’s best beach soccer teams gather in Alghero for the 2024 edition of the World Winners Cup, I’m reminded that growth happens when we dare to venture beyond our comfort zones. Beach soccer taught me resilience and teamwork. Paragliding further reinforced my position on the value of stepping outside my comfort zone. Skydiving, I’m sure, will reveal new lessons.
To all the clubs competing in Alghero, I say – seize the moment and push beyond, the world is waiting.
About the Author:
Taye Olajide (Tai)
BSmag Founder,
Eternal Beach Soccer enthusiast – If there is ever something like that :))
