Sioux Falls Rallying Together to Support Injured Roosevelt High School Soccer Player, Dawson Aberson
In the tight-knit community of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, a powerful demonstration of unity and support is underway for Roosevelt High School soccer player Dawson Aberson. After a harrowing collision on the field that left Dawson with a concussion, multiple fractures around his eye, and a broken cheekbone, the city has rallied around him and his family, showing an outpouring of love and generosity.
Kelli Aberson, Dawson’s mother, expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming response: “The biggest takeaway from this is, even in a city of this size, I’ve learned how small it can become when people are willing of their time and talent. We feel the love.”
The Abersons have been inundated with messages of support, receiving hundreds of texts and Facebook messages from well-wishers across the city and state. The show of solidarity extends beyond words, with schools like Pierre’s Riggs High School organizing a fundraiser during their homecoming football game, with proceeds dedicated to the Aberson family.
Another heartwarming initiative was set into motion by a group of parents from Roosevelt High School’s soccer team. They’ve organized a fundraising event at Shenanigans sports bar, featuring an all-you-can-eat taco bar for $20, a silent auction, and all profits directed towards supporting the Abersons. This event is scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 1, 2023, from Noon to 4 p.m.
Don Rose, the owner of Shenanigans, shared his perspective on the city’s response, emphasizing how Sioux Falls, despite its school rivalries, comes together in times of need: “It seems like a community. People come out to support things like this.”
Kim Tesch, an RHS soccer parent, has taken charge of selling black “#DawsonStrong” bracelets. In addition, parents Cassie and Jacob Marley II devoted their time to designing and ordering T-shirts with an empowering message of support.
Tesch, visibly moved, reflected on the overwhelming support: “It’s been amazing. We’re like a family and everybody’s coming from every angle to join in and do whatever they can to spread the word.”
For Tesch, Dawson’s accident struck a chord, as her own son and Dawson’s teammate, Jensen, had suffered a painful knee injury the previous year. Witnessing Dawson’s injury brought back a flood of emotions for her.
The Roosevelt soccer team faced significant challenges in the past season, struggling to secure a win. However, the arrival of Victor Naranjo, a dedicated coach who wholeheartedly cares for his players, brought a renewed sense of hope and determination.
Kelli Aberson expressed her admiration for Naranjo’s dedication: “He loves these boys. He was there (at the Aberson house, talking to Dawson) Sunday night before he went to the meeting with the team. He truly cares about these guys.”
In a Hollywood-worthy twist, Dawson, determined to support his team, attended their match after the accident. The team, inspired by his presence, achieved a remarkable victory – their first in two years. The celebration that followed, with players donning T-shirts bearing Dawson’s name, was a testament to their resilience and solidarity.
The rallying cry of “Dawson Strong” echoes through the community, embodying the indomitable spirit of a young athlete and the unyielding support of a city united. In the face of adversity, Sioux Falls stands together, demonstrating the extraordinary power of community.
Sources:
- https://youtu.be/ccHzpvMWfl4?si=b1d53SOc2Mx08mRu
- https://www.dakotanewsnow.com/2023/09/21/sports-community-overwhelming-family-with-support-injured-player/
- https://www.ktiv.com/video/2023/09/21/sports-community-overwhelming-family-with-support-injured-player/
- https://chat.openai.com/
- https://readloud.net/
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