Refugee To All-American: The Story of Lakewood's Malvin Gblah

LAKEWOOD, OH — Malvin Gblah's path to soccer stardom at Lakewood High was more than arduous, it was miraculous. Now, the senior forward has earned a rare designation: All-American status.

Gblah was born in a refugee camp in the Ivory Coast, on the northwestern tip of Africa. His family was fleeing the violence of civil war in Liberia. Over the span of nearly 14 years, approximately 200,000 Liberians were killed in the conflict, the Guardian reported.

For years, Gblah's family endured the trials and tribulations of life in refugee camps, where food could be scarce and crowding was common, according to the Guardian. Eventually Gblah's family was accepted into the U.S. Four years ago, Gblah settled in Lakewood.

During that time, he has found acceptance and success on the pitch with the high school's soccer team.

“For the four years I have been in Lakewood and at LHS, the support I have received I cannot put into words. Lakewood High School has given me the tools to be successful in life after I graduate, and the community has been both welcoming and supportive," Gblah said.

After four years in Lakewood, Gblah has played the fourth most games played in Lakewood High history (71), third most career goals scored (45), and most assists on goals in a career (31). Over the course of the 2018 season, Gblah tallied 18 assists, tied for most in a single season in Lakewood High history.

“I knew right away that Malvin was a player unlike others coming into our program. His foot skills, ball mastery and game awareness are exceptional and have grown all four year in this program. He is incredibly committed to his team and the game. He will go on to do great things. We are proud to call him a Ranger," said Lakewood High soccer coach Andrew Toth.

Gblah's trophy shelf must be overflowing after he garnered a bevy of awards throughout the season and his career at Lakewood. Besides being named an All-American, he was:

• 2018 OSSCA All-Ohio First Team
• 2018 All-Greater Cleveland Player of the Year
• 2018 All-Greater Cleveland First Team
• 2018 All-Lake Erie Regional Team
• 2018 All-Southwest Conference 2nd Team
• 2018 GCSSCA All-Star First Team
• 2017 All-Southwest Conference First Team
• 2017 All-Greater Cleveland First Team
• 2017 OHSSA All-Ohio First Team
• 2017 All-Lake Erie Regional Team
• 2016 All-Southwest Conference Second Team

Lakewood High's soccer captain, Jack Hueter, heaped endless praise on his teammate.

“Malvin is a one of a kind player. The way he plays is special and entertaining to watch. He brings a unique spark to our team, both on the field and in the locker room," he said. Gblah returned the praise, calling Jack a friend, inspirational teammate, and the best player Gblah has ever shared the pitch with.

Ultimately, Gblah credited the diverse and embracing atmosphere of Lakewood for his success on the field and in the community.

“I want to mention my very deep appreciation for the support I have received from Coach Toth, my teammates, Principal Brian Siftar and the LHS Staff, Dr Margaret, and Mr. and Mrs. Nagel," he said.

(For more news like this, find your local Patch here. If you have an iPhone, click here to get the free Patch iPhone app; download the free Patch Android app here. And like Patch on Facebook!)

Photos from Rick Harvey