King Saah ’07’s journey is a testament to resilience, leadership, and service. Born in Liberia, King and his family were forced to flee to Côte d’Ivoire during the Liberian Civil War. In 1999, they relocated to the United States, eventually leading King to The Episcopal Academy, where he became a standout member of the boys’ soccer team for four years, alongside teammate and close friend Ralph Elliott ’06.
Since graduating from EA, King has transformed his passion for soccer and community into a remarkable career as a Sport for Development and Peace expert and researcher. Currently pursuing a PhD in Kinesiology at Louisiana State University, King also serves as an instructor, teaching courses on sports management and the societal impact of sports. His research focuses on leadership development within the field of sport for development, as well as innovative funding models for related programs.
King’s academic journey began with a BA in graphic design from Cabrini College, where he played on the men’s soccer team for three years, earning two league championships. Beyond his academic and athletic accomplishments, King co-founded On Goal Liberia, a non-profit organization offering elite soccer training and pathways for personal development and social inclusion in Liberia. Through annual drives, the organization provides soccer equipment to children in Kakata and has recently expanded to support girls by supplying feminine hygiene products, ensuring equitable participation in sports.
King’s dedication to using soccer as a tool for social change extends beyond Liberia. In Philadelphia, he managed the local chapter of Street Soccer USA, helping young players secure scholarships and creating community soccer fields. In Baton Rouge, he has secured funding to establish a soccer league for immigrants and refugees, continuing his mission to empower marginalized communities. Reflecting on his work, King humbly shared, “We aren’t curing cancer, but I’m trying to make kids’ lives a little better.”
King remains connected to EA through close friendships with classmates like Nate Wineland ’07, Georgie McFarland ’09, and Ralph Elliott ’06. His bond with EA is further reflected in his appreciation for the school’s community service program, which he credits as the spark for his lifelong commitment to giving back.
From Liberia to Baton Rouge, King Saah embodies the spirit of EA alumni who strive to make a meaningful difference in the world. We are proud to celebrate his ongoing contributions to the global community.