More Than a Diagnosis: How Jordan Found His Way Back to the Game He Loves

When Jordan Obernesser felt pain in his knee during summer soccer workouts, he assumed it was nothing more than teenage growing pains. An osteosarcoma diagnosis changed the path ahead. After undergoing an amputation and learning to use a prosthesis, Jordan found his way back to the sport he loves and ultimately to the U.S. Amputee Soccer National Team.

An Unexpected Opponent 

Leading up to high school soccer tryouts, Jordan was focused on training and preparing for the season. The pain in his knee gradually worsened, prompting him and his family to seek medical answers. 

The diagnosis was devastating. On August 29, 2022, Jordan was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a form of bone cancer. 

He began chemotherapy almost immediately, and while his family hoped the treatment would be effective, they faced many unknowns. One of the most difficult moments came shortly after his diagnosis, as they waited for scan results to determine whether the cancer had spread. 

When the results finally came back showing the cancer had not spread beyond the tumor, the family felt an overwhelming sense of relief. Still, Jordan’s journey was far from over. 

A Life-Changing Surgery 

On November 28, 2022, Jordan underwent a rotationplasty, a complex limb-salvage procedure sometimes used in cases of bone cancer affecting the knee. 

During the surgery, surgeons removed the cancerous portion of his leg, including the knee joint. His lower leg and foot were then rotated and reattached. Today, Jordan’s ankle functions as his knee within his prosthesis, allowing him to walk, run, and remain active. 

Finding Strength Through Community 

After surgery, Jordan faced the work of adapting to life with a prosthesis. Like many young people navigating a significant life change, there were challenging days filled with uncertainty and frustration but there were also people ready to support him. 

His care team at the Wheat Ridge, Colorado, Hanger Clinic, including prosthetist Nick Uhler, CPO, has supported Jordan throughout his prosthetic journey, working with him as his needs and goals have evolved, including his goal of returning to soccer. 

That support extended into the soccer community as well. The Colorado Rapids Amputee Soccer organization stepped alongside Jordan and his family throughout his recovery, creating opportunities for him to stay connected to the sport he loves. From players visiting Jordan at home during treatment to helping him discover adaptive soccer opportunities, the soccer community reminded him that he was never facing this journey alone. 

Back on the Field

Following his surgery, Jordan wasn’t sure exactly what his path back to soccer would look like. While his life had changed dramatically, his love for the game never wavered. 

“I always thought I’d be able to play soccer after my amputation,” Jordan said. “I just didn’t know how I’d do that.” 

Determined to find a way back to the sport he loved, Jordan discovered amputee soccer. What started as a new opportunity quickly became something far bigger than he ever imagined. 

Before long, he was competing at the highest level of the sport and earned a spot on the U.S. Amputee Soccer National Team. 

“The 2026 Men’s World Cup is coming to Mexico this November, and I’m proud to say I’ll be representing the U.S. in my first-ever World Cup, with many more to come,” he said. 

For Jordan, wearing the red, white, and blue is the realization of a lifelong dream. 

“I grew up watching the U.S. soccer team on TV, and now to be playing for them is a dream come true.” 

Today, Jordan is cancer-free, thriving with his prosthesis, and competing on the international stage. His journey is proof that while a diagnosis may alter the path ahead, it doesn’t have to limit what’s possible. Through determination and a willingness to embrace new opportunities, Jordan found his way back to the game he loves and is now inspiring others around the world to pursue their own dreams without limits. Learn more about the U.S. Soccer Amputee Soccer National Team, their match schedule, and how to watch the games live.