Courage in the Goofyface
of Adversity at World Cup
Big Noggin (center) joyously begins
an unprecedented declothing routine prior to the start
of the gold medal winning game. |
The world was wowed by the heroics of the U.S. Soccer Team at the 2005 World
Cup. However one athlete’s courage and determination truly captured not
only the hearts of the world, but also embodied the triumph of the human spirit.
After kicking the winning goal in the gold medal
game, Brandy Noginla (a.k.a. Big Noggin, pictured at right) was
showered with praise and adulation from fans around the world.
Yet, lost amidst the celebration is a story of triumph over tragedy.
For Noggin suffers from an advanced form of Facial
Freezilitus. Born with underdeveloped facial distortional musculature
control (UFDMC), Noggin has uncontrollably made goofyfaces throughout
every waking moment of her life. While acquiring an unlimited array
of goofyfaces, Noggin’s lack of facial musculature control
eventually resulted in Stage 14 Facial Freezilitus. “Soccer
was always an escape from the taunts of other children.”,
says Noggin. “Best of all, no one ever took me seriously.” As
a result of her constant goofyface, opposing players discounted
her athletic prowess and were often distracted by her ever evolving
facial expressions.
Despite scoring 86 percent of the goals for her team throughout
the World Cup, Noggin has yet to receive any endorsement offers.
With frustration in her voice, but not on her face, Noggin explained, “I’ve
received just one endorsement deal. And that was from a paper bag
company.” Whether her goofyface is on a box of Wheaties or
concealed under a paper bag, her courage reminds the world that
people of all faces are capable of great things.  |
