On Monday, July 20, at the Thiers train station in Nice, nine intellectually challenged soccer players from the PACA region are gathering to head to Paris. They will meet up with the entire French delegation before flying to Los Angeles, under the guidance of the Special Olympics association. This organization operates worldwide, promoting sports for those with intellectual disabilities. It organizes the Special World Games, and these young soccer enthusiasts will be participating, largely thanks to the OGC Nice club.
With sleek silhouettes, OGC Nice jerseys on their shoulders, and scarves and Nissart flags on their luggage, the nine athletes are finalizing the last preparations before the big departure in front of the train station’s forecourt. Their parents are there ensuring they don’t forget anything. Loris Curtil’s parents accompanied him before he leaves, but his father, Bertrand, will see him very soon. “I’m going to Los Angeles, I’m going to watch them play,” he says, before thanking the city’s club for “making this project possible.”
For this dream would not have taken shape without OGC Nice, a partner of Special Olympics for two years. Every employee was mobilized: mental and physical preparation, supervision, emotional support, and especially training. Initially, not all the young people were soccer players. “Loris practiced triathlon,” confirms Bertrand, while another used to swim. It was necessary to teach each player the aspects of soccer. And at the end of the journey, Eric Bustamante speaks of his “great happiness and pride” in participating in the project.
The educational coach of OGC Nice had no preconceptions or fears before embarking on this “human adventure.” The necessity to adapt to each player did not deter him, given that every disability is different. Mélanie, the group’s chaperone, communicates in sign language with a young deaf participant. The coach highlights the “total cohesion” that has been created through soccer. All are “happy to be together,” he declares.
President Rivère and Amavi, Symbols of Nice’s Commitment
A collective effort has been engaged with the Special Olympics coach. It has been successful as all nine lucky ones are ready. It must be said that the training was rich and intense. Bernard Cora, assistant physical trainer of the pros, offered sessions comparable to those experienced by high-level players. Three preparation matches contributed to their progress on the green field: against employees, supporters, and the Old Eagles of OGC Nice. An involvement at every level.
Jordan Amavi exemplifies the club’s commitment. The left-back has become the project’s patron. “He is very present with the young ones, giving them advice. He came to every training session, always with a smile,” says Eric Bustamante. Jean-Pierre Rivère is not forgotten. Bertrand Curtil emphasizes the “importance” of Nice’s President, who personally delivered the jerseys that the players will wear during the Nice-Lens match last season.
Eric Bustamante sets a single objective, which is “to enjoy themselves.” The team members have donned their jerseys in red and black colors but emblazoned with “FRANCE.” Indeed, they will represent the club and France under the name “Special OGC Nice.”
