A visit to barcelona to meet silvio szegedi
I have known Silvio for about six years and we have corresponded on many occasions but had never met in person. He is one of the game’s pioneers and has been involved in sport for over ten years.
Silvio has very strong opinions on the game and how it should be played , so much so that he invented a hybrid version that he feels is more inclusive and serves the needs of community better – this game is called WABOL.
WABOL is ideally played with up to 9 a side on a half sized pitch with a two touch rule . It promotes a short passing game with lots of support play – Tiki / Taka at fast walking pace if you like. The idea is to minimise any physical or technical advantage by individuals and to promote a team ethos where everyone can flourish.
Silvio has made a huge contribution to the Barcelona community with several WABOL sessions every week in which players with mental and physical disabilities mix in with able bodied teammates to play matches in which the scoreline is of secondary importance. I played in one of these sessions and the rules really test your first touch and the need to scan the pitch quickly to determine where to pass before you have received the ball.
It was an enjoyable experience and even better to listen to some of the players stories in which WABOL has played an important part in their lives to combat and overcome loneliness, depression, anxiety and various social phobias . Some players had not engaged in physical exercise for years before these sessions had facilitated a desire to leave the apartments in which they lived.
Inclusivity has been the key to the success of WABOL and its popularity within the Barcelona community. One man’s vision and firm beliefs continue to drive the game forward and inspire others to join the movement.
