Stories

Tag: Warrior Games

Adaptive sports have molded our family.
March 29, 2024 — As Adaptive Sports Month kicks off in April, retired Army Staff Sgt Joel Rodriguez and his wife Liannie share their transformative journey with adaptive sports following Joel's life-changing accident in 2014, leaving him paralyzed. From initially resisting the idea to becoming deeply involved as a player, coach, and mechanic, adaptive sports became the cornerstone of their lives, providing purpose, community, and a family affair spanning across generations. Their story highlights the profound impact of adaptive sports beyond competition, emphasizing its role in fostering resilience, discipline, and a supportive community for individuals navigating life's challenges. Joel advocates for anyone facing life-altering circumstances to explore adaptive sports, underscoring the invaluable camaraderie and sense of belonging they offer... MORE

Wheelchair mechanic Liannie Rodriguez is out on the floor fixing a wheelchair during Team Army’s wheelchair rugby practice at the 2022 Warrior Games in Orlando.

I don’t know how to spell can’t.
March 8, 2024 — Retired Army Specialist JP Lane, a combat engineer who lost both legs and suffered extensive injuries in Afghanistan 13 years ago, has become a beacon of resilience and inspiration through his remarkable journey of recovery and advocacy. Beginning his rehabilitation at the Fort Sam Houston Soldier Recovery Unit, Lane underwent numerous surgeries and, alongside his wife Crystal, embarked on a mission to share their story nationwide, offering hope to others facing similar challenges. Lane, also a talented musician and speaker, discovered a newfound passion for adaptive sports during the 2022 Warrior Games, igniting a desire to return to athletics despite his injuries. Now, at the 2024 Army Trials in Fort Liberty North Carolina, Lane is competing in various events with the goal of earning a spot on Team Army for the upcoming Department of Defense Warrior Games... MORE

Ret. Army Spc. JP Lane in the discus competition at the 2024 Army Trials.

Building confidence through adaptive sports
January 29, 2024 — Soldiers in the Army Recovery Care Program find confidence and teamwork through adaptive sports, as highlighted by Col. Roy Walker, emphasizing their therapeutic value for mental and physical well-being. Visiting a wheelchair rugby camp, Walker witnessed firsthand how sports training boosts soldiers' confidence, aiding in their total recovery journey. CW3 Kirk Holden, a participant, shares his positive experience, echoing the sentiment of enjoying the camp while learning and bonding with fellow soldiers. With confidence and hard work, these soldiers aim to excel at the upcoming Army Trials, demonstrating their fearlessness in facing challenges... MORE

Col. Roy Walker visits Soldiers at the 2024 Wheelchair Rugby Camp at Ft. Belvoir.

One Moment in Time
January 23, 2024 — Brandi Evans, a retired Army sergeant and medic, exemplifies the power of kindness and selflessness in the world of adaptive sports. Despite her own competitive drive and success, Evans made a pivotal decision at the 2018 Invictus Games in Sydney, Australia, to support a fellow athlete from the UK, Naomi Adie, in securing a bronze medal, a moment now etched in Invictus history. Evans's journey from injury to mentorship at the Fort Bliss Soldier Recovery Unit underscores the transformative impact of adaptive reconditioning and competitive sports on recovery and resilience. Her story serves as a beacon of hope and determination for soldiers facing adversity, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and community support in overcoming challenges... MORE

Retired Army Sgt. Brandi Evans (right) and Royal Air Force Corporal Naomi "Nomes" Adie show their bond as Aide crosses the finish line to win the bronze after the 1500-meter wheelchair race in Sydney at the 2018 Invictus Games.

You have to keep pedaling to finish the race.
January 17, 2024 — Michael Stephens, a visually impaired athlete and two-time Warrior Games competitor for Team Army, has found incredible success in Para Cycling, setting a new world record at the Para Pan Games in Chile. Despite sustaining severe injuries during combat operations in Afghanistan, including spinal injuries and multiple TBIs, Stephens discovered adaptive sports as a means of recovery. His journey from initial skepticism to becoming a world-class cyclist exemplifies resilience and determination. Despite facing challenges such as multiple sclerosis and deteriorating vision, Stephens remains focused on his goals, aiming for the Paris Paralympics. His story is not just about personal triumph but also about giving back and mentoring others on their journey to excellence in sports... MORE

The dynamic duo of Joe Christiansen and Michael Stephens racing for gold at the Parapan Games in Chile last November.

I'm a buck-35 and 5 foot 9 - I can adapt to anything!
January 17, 2024 — Sgt. Alexander Robison's journey from a near-fatal encounter with a suicide bomber to finding solace and strength through wheelchair rugby is an inspiring tale of resilience and community support. After sustaining severe injuries during a deployment, Robison's remarkable recovery at Walter Reed led him to discover adaptive sports, particularly wheelchair rugby, which became a crucial part of his healing process. Despite ongoing struggles with PTSD and physical limitations, Robison's determination shines as he sets his sights on competing for Team Army at the 2024 Army Trials. With unwavering support from the Soldier Recovery Unit and his family, Robison is not only reclaiming his life but also aspiring to help others navigate their own paths to recovery... MORE

Maj Gen Matthew McFarlane pinned Robison’s Purple Heart and Combat Action badge on him in the ICU in Baghdad.

You can never be 100% for anybody else if you are not 100% yourself.
January 2, 2024 — Retired Army Staff Sgt Ross Alewine reflects on his journey through the Army Recovery Care Program (ARCP) after sustaining multiple injuries during deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Despite physical and emotional challenges, he found purpose and resilience through adaptive sports, ultimately becoming a champion in the Warrior and Invictus Games. Alewine emphasizes the importance of the ARCP beyond sports, highlighting its role in holistic recovery through various outlets like music, art, and yoga. He now shares his experiences with soldiers, advocating for self-care, adaptation, and embracing a new, better version of oneself post-injury. Alewine encourages soldiers to utilize the tools provided by the program and embrace daily challenges for personal growth and success... MORE

U.S. Army SSG Ross Alewine, right, is congratulated by Silver Medalist U.S. Air Force SrA Rafael Morfinenciso, center, and Bronze Medalist U.S. Army SSG Altermese Kendrick after Alewine won the Gold Medal as Ultimate Champion during the Closing Ceremony at the 2018 Department of Defense Warrior Games.

How the Army outfits wounded Soldiers for life after recovery.
January 2, 2024 — The Army Recovery Care Program (ARCP) emphasizes Adaptive Reconditioning, ensuring soldiers recovering from wounds, injuries, or illnesses have access to suitable equipment and opportunities for physical and therapeutic activities. Chris Uggiano, the Program Manager, highlights the importance of providing equipment for adaptive sports and diverse activities beyond traditional sports, facilitating holistic recovery and preparation for life after Soldier Recovery Units (SRUs). Education on equipment usage and safety is prioritized, aiming to empower soldiers and optimize their rehabilitation experience. With a focus on equipping soldiers for success beyond recovery, ARCP underscores the significance of personalized support and resources to foster resilience and improve overall well-being... MORE

Team Army Coach Chris Uggiano embraces U.S. Army Spc. Timothy Capps after finishing his race on June 6, 2023, during the Department of Defense Warrior Games Challenge. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Anthony Hopper)

QUICK LINKS

CONNECT