In association with PhysioTherabia and the Children with Disability Association, an organisation dedicated to improving the quality of life of disabled children in Saudi Arabia, Kalidou Koulibaly was invovled in a heart-warming and inspirational event that contributed to a memorable day for children in Riyadh.
The player inspired the children in attendance through his presence, with many of them coping with disabilities. Kalidou shared his life experience while underlining the power of resilience.
«Football has given me so much, but the most important goal that I can score is making a difference in the lives of these young heroes», he explained.
There were many moving moments, such as when a child wearing a Koulibaly Al-Hilal jersey ran over to hug him as he entered the room or when Koulibaly kneeled down next to a disabled boy who was holding out a football and said to him, «Do you see this ball? It’s not about playing, it’s about dreaming.Keep it close to you and never stop dreaming».
Alongside Kalidou was former Chelsea fitness coach and now the head of sport and health at Burjeel Holdings , Vinay Menon, who described the wider impact of such an event: «It’s not just about sport or heatlth, but human relations and the indomitable spirit that resides in every child. Koulibaly is an example to follow. He shows how strength can manifest itself in many forms».
Another key moment was the journey through the sensory rooms, which are a PhysioTherabia installation where children are immersed in environments designed to develop their sensory skills, allowing them to relax and relieve feelings of stress of anxiety.
«Moments like this remind us that every child, regardless of their ability, deserves the chance to dream and be inspired», observed Abdulmohsen Al-Ashry, regional CEO of Burjeel Holdings. «I’d like to thank Kalidou for bringing smiles to their faces».
It was the latest in a long line of goals registered off the pitch by Kalidou.
![KK Physiotherabia](https://capitaineducoeur.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/KK-Physiotherabia-1024x683.jpg)