From Turnstone to Team USA: David Dowling’s journey

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WPTA) - 26-year-old David Dowling is following his dreams, representing Power Soccer at its highest level.

But he wasn’t always this skilled at power soccer.

After years of dedication to his craft and belief in his abilities, the Fort Wayne native is representing the USA in his international sport.

David was born with limited movements in his arms and legs. He and his family moved from the Philippines when he was a baby.

When he grew older, he began to want a way to play sports that would match his spirit.

“I was super competitive,” Dowling said.

So in 2009, he joined a power soccer club team at Turnstone.

“My favorite part about the sport is just the independence that I get, because growing up with a disability, you kinda have to rely on others. When we’re all on the court, it’s us making our own decisions.”

The manager of sports at Turnstone, Kevin Hughes, mentored David from the beginning.

“David liked to try everything. Ultimately, it just grew to the point where soccer is something he honed in on, to the point now where he’s at the highest level,” Dowling said.

As his passion grew stronger, David realized he wanted to take his talents to the next level. In 2019, he earned a spot on the U.S. national team.

“Every kid who does sports wants to represent their country,” Dowling said.

This opportunity led him to compete in ‘America’s Cup Champions’ with players from across the country.

“It’s incredible being under U.S. soccer, they treat us really well,” Dowling said.

”I never thought that I’d be paid to travel around the world and play soccer in a wheelchair," Dowling. “If you have a dream, you just kind of have to go out there and chase it.”

Dowling reminds all of us that along the journey of life, if you push yourself hard enough, you may surprise yourself.