Young soccer players in Beachwood take for granted that they can lace up a pair of cleats before they step onto the field. 

But in Tanzania, some children play the game they love barefoot, using makeshift balls. 

Junior Byeong Woo Ahn is determined to change that.

“In America, we often wear a pair of cleats or use a ball for a year and then throw them away without a second thought,” Ahn said. 

During a medical mission trip to Tanzania in 2023 where he volunteered at a government-funded public health center, Ahn spent his free time playing soccer with neighborhood kids. 

He quickly noticed that many played in slippers, or had no shoes at all, and that they used a homemade ball. 

What stood out most to Ahn was not the lack of equipment, but the children’s unwavering passion for the game. 

“Seeing how kids in Tanzania played with so little made me realize that what we consider old or worn-out could actually make a huge difference for someone else,” he said.

Inspired by their resolve to play despite their circumstances, Ahn felt compelled to take action and launched a donation drive to collect soccer equipment for Tanzanian children. 

Ahn’s drive, “Kicks for Kilimanjaro,” is named for Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak and a symbol of resilience for many. 

“I saw kids playing barefoot on rough ground, but their love for the game never wavered,” Ahn said. “It made me realize how much we take for granted, and I wanted to do something to help.”

The initiative seeks donations of gently used or new soccer cleats, balls, shin guards and soccer-related items. 

A collection box is placed in the school library until March 21, and Ahn hopes to involve the broader community as well. In addition to school collection points, donations will also be accepted during Sunday soccer practices, making it even more convenient for students and families to contribute.

“Even one pair of cleats can make a huge difference,” he said. “A good pair of shoes could mean fewer injuries and more comfort for these kids who are already playing with so much heart.”

As the donation drive kicks off, Ahn remains hopeful that the school community will rally behind the cause. 

The goal is to gather as much equipment as possible before the items are shipped to Tanzania later this year. Looking ahead, he plans to expand the project by placing donation boxes in other schools and reaching out to local soccer teams to increase contributions.

“This isn’t just about soccer,” he said. “It’s about giving kids the opportunity to enjoy the game fully and safely.”

Donations can be dropped off at designated collection boxes around the school until March 21 or brought to Sunday practices. 

Every piece of equipment brings a young player one step closer to playing the sport they love with the gear they deserve.