Gonzalo Vilariño: How Argentina's blind soccer team became champions (with English subtitles) | TED

TL;DR

This content tells the story of a coach who worked with blind soccer players and later with wheelchair soccer players, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and changing societal rules regarding disability.

Transcript

I opened a blind man's head. I didn't make him think or reflect -- I cracked his head open, literally. We were walking with him holding onto my shoulder, I miscalculated how much space there was between us, and I knocked him into a gate. (Laughter) Five stitches in his forehead. At that moment, I felt like the worst teacher in the world. I really d... Read More

Key Insights

• 👁️ The speaker had a memorable incident where he accidentally injured a blind man while working at an institute for the blind, but ultimately left a positive impact on the man's life.
• ⚽ The blind individuals at the institute were able to play soccer by relying on their other senses and using certain adaptations, such as a ball that made sound and wearing eye masks.
• 🔑 The speaker, who studied physical education, faced challenges and had to find new ways to train and communicate with the blind athletes.
• 🌍 The blind soccer team faced difficulties in being recognized and accepted as a high-performance team, but eventually gained recognition and respect through their accomplishments.
• 🏆 Despite facing doubt from others, the blind soccer team showed determination and went on to compete in the World Championships, proving their skill and dedication.
• 🙏 The team's experience before the final game, including a suggestion to go to church for a chance to regain sight, highlighted the unique challenges and emotions faced by blind individuals.
• 🏟️ The support and encouragement from the crowd during the final game created a powerful and emotional experience for both the players and the audience.
• ♿ The speaker also coached a national team of individuals playing power soccer in wheelchairs, further highlighting the inclusivity and adaptability of the sport.
• 🌟 The speaker emphasized the need for society to change its perspective and rules regarding disabilities, and to treat individuals with disabilities with respect and inclusion.

Questions & Answers

Q: How did the speaker end up opening a blind man's head?

The speaker accidentally knocked a blind man into a gate while walking with him, resulting in the blind man getting five stitches in his forehead.

Q: What surprised the speaker about the blind individuals at the institute for the blind?

The speaker was surprised to learn that the blind individuals at the institute could swim, exercise, play cards, and pour mate without burning themselves. However, what amazed the speaker the most was seeing them play soccer.

Q: How did the blind individuals play soccer without being able to see?

The blind individuals played soccer by using a ball that made a sound so they could locate it. They had a guide behind the rival team's goal to know where to kick the ball, and they also wore eye masks to ensure equality among the players.

Q: How did the speaker adapt his coaching methods for the blind soccer team?

The speaker couldn't use traditional coaching methods for the blind soccer team, so he used alternative tools. For example, instead of using a chalkboard, he used a plastic tray and bottle caps for the players to follow by touch. He also ran with them while holding a rope so they could run on a track.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The speaker accidentally injured a blind man while walking and felt guilty, but the man later recognized the impact the speaker had on his life and career.

• The speaker worked at an institute for the blind and was amazed by the abilities of the blind individuals, especially their skills in playing soccer.

• The speaker trained the blind soccer team, faced challenges in gaining recognition and respect, but eventually led them to success in national and international competitions.