A Journey Defined by Resilience

When 20-year-old Abel Walatee signed his first professional contract with Western United this season, he described the experience as a “dream come true.” But behind the triumph lies a story of incredible resilience. Walatee’s journey spans continents, languages, and countless challenges that have shaped him into the player and person he is today.

ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA – NOVEMBER 09: Abel Walatee of Western United passes during the round four A-League Men match between Adelaide United and Western United at Coopers Stadium, on November 09, 2024, in Adelaide, Australia. (Photo by Mark Brake/Getty Images)

Born in Ghana, Walatee moved to Liberia as an infant, where he was raised by his grandmother. It wasn’t until he was eight years old that he boarded a plane to Australia to reunite with his mother—a move that would redefine his life.

Hurdles and Heartbreak: A New Beginning

From Liberia to Australia: A World Apart “My grandmother was all I knew,” Walatee said in an interview with aleagues.com.au. “When I was told I was going to live with my mother, I was confused. To me, my grandmother was my mum.”

Leaving Liberia was heartbreaking. Walatee remembers crying and resisting the move, uncertain about the life awaiting him in Australia. Adjusting to a new family dynamic wasn’t easy, and neither was the cultural and linguistic shift.

“I couldn’t speak English well. It was hard fitting in,” he shared. Football, however, became his refuge. Amid bullying and isolation, the game offered solace and a way to connect.

Discovering Football: A Life-Changing Moment

Finding Football in Melbourne’s Suburbs Walatee’s first brush with football came during school lunchtime games. “I wasn’t trying to take it seriously,” he admitted. But a chance encounter with a coach from North Sunshine Eagles changed everything.

Encouraged by the coach to attend a trial, Walatee’s father supported him wholeheartedly. Starting as a goalkeeper, he quickly transitioned to an outfield player and began making waves. At 13, he scored over 50 goals in a single season, prompting coaches to push him towards higher levels of competition.

The Road to Professional Soccer

Rising Through the Ranks From North Sunshine Eagles to Green Gully in the National Premier Leagues (NPL), Walatee’s talent flourished. By age 14, he was scouted by Melbourne City’s youth side. His performances caught the eye of Western United, where he joined the inaugural academy squad.

A stint abroad with Danish side Akademisk Boldklub Gladsaxe in 2023 proved challenging. Injuries and limited game time led Walatee to return to Australia, where he rejoined Western United and earned a place in the Isuzu UTE A-League.

Overcoming Adversity: The Western United Chapter

A Return to His Roots Walatee credits Western United’s Diogo Ferreira for believing in him during his toughest moments. “He’s always been on my side,” Walatee said. The trust paid off when Walatee was offered another chance to prove himself. After excelling in the NPL, he signed his first professional contract, fulfilling a lifelong dream.

A Beacon of Inspiration

Walatee’s story is a testament to resilience and the power of sport to transcend barriers. From his early days in Ghana to his rise in Australian soccer, his journey inspires countless young players facing their own challenges.