Stories

Tag: Warrior Games

Heart of Gold
July 16, 2024 — Retired Army Spc. JP Lane received the Heart of the Team Award at the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games, an honor voted on by his teammates. This marked Lane's debut as an athlete at the games, a stark contrast to his previous role as an ESPN commentator in 2022. A survivor of a 200lb bomb blast in Afghanistan, Lane lost both legs and sustained multiple injuries but found renewed purpose through adaptive sports. His wife, Crystal, and teammates, including Retired Army Sgt. Shawn Lee, highlight his ability to inspire and uplift others. Lane, who won multiple medals at the games, advocates for sharing personal stories to help others facing challenges... MORE

Assistant Secretary of the Air Force, Honorable Alex Wagner, left, congratulates U.S. Army veteran J.P. Lane for earning the Heart of the Team Award for Team Army at the send-off ceremony during the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games

“It’s not just something I say. Adaptive sports truly saved my life.” ~ Corine Hamilton
July 11, 2024 — Corine Hamilton, initially resistant to adaptive sports as part of her recovery at Walter Reed's Soldier Recovery Unit, now credits them with transforming her mental and physical health. Following a life-altering car crash in Germany in 2021 that left her paralyzed from the waist down, Hamilton found hope and purpose through adaptive sports. Encouraged by the Army Recovery Care Program, she has become a nine-time medalist for Team Army at the Department of Defense Warrior Games. Competing in events like shot put, where she achieved a personal best and gold medal, has boosted her confidence and upper body strength, essential for her daily life. Hamilton, who also competed in the 2022 Warrior Games and the Invictus Games, is dedicated to continuing her training and supporting fellow athletes, all while pursuing a degree in healthcare management. She aims to inspire others in their mental and physical recovery journeys... MORE

Spc. (R) Corine Hamilton competes in hand cycling at the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games

Just keep moving
July 9, 2024 — Sgt 1st Class Jeffrey Peters faced an unexpected setback just days before the 2024 Warrior Games due to a severe cycling accident. Despite his injuries, Peters arrived in Orlando determined to support his team. Known for his past successes, including eleven medals at the 2022 Warrior Games and three at the 2023 Invictus Games, Peters' resolve was undiminished. His journey through recovery, following an ischemic stroke in 2021, exemplifies his resilience. With the help of the Soldier Recovery Unit at Fort Riley and the support of his family, Peters overcame significant physical challenges. At the 2024 Warrior Games, he adapted to compete with one arm, winning eight medals. Peters' story is a testament to perseverance and the strength of the Warrior Games community, encouraging others to keep moving forward despite their obstacles... MORE

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. John D. Kline, Commanding General of the United States Army Center for Initial Military Training, United States Army Training and Doctrine Command, right, presents the silver medal to Sgt. 1st Class Jeffrey Peters in a medal ceremony at the track event during the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games

Recovery Services to the rescue!
July 5, 2024 — Ten days, eleven adaptive sports, and more than 200 athletes from the U.S. and Australia made the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games in Orlando not only memorable but also a source of inspiration for the broader community. It takes immense dedication to pull these games off—from logistics to coaches to communications and medical. With their unwavering commitment, the Medical Team for Team Army was like a daily cog in the wheel, helping to keep the machine moving. We found Retired Staff Sgt Gene Calantoc on track day on a table in the medical tent. His teammates nicknamed him "Gene the Machine" at these games! Daniel Rendeiro, a physical therapist from Ft. Cavasos, did his best to keep Gene the Machine moving. "I'm working on Gene's back. He just finished throwing the discus, which puts a lot of rotational stress on the back, so it took a toll on his mid-back. I will do my best to get the soreness out," said Rendeiro. Calantoc, a left-leg above-the-knee amputee, participated in seven of the eleven sporting events. Rendeiro emphasized the unique challenges these athletes face at the Warrior Games when we asked about the importance of a robust medical team. "The key is that most folks don't realize how grueling it is here at Warrior Games. An Olympic athlete has one event they specialize in and compete in, and these athletes here are required to specialize in multiple events over a very brief and intense period." Calantoc went from powerlifting to cycling, then wheelchair rugby, indoor rowing to wheelchair basketball, archery, and field events, all in eight days. "We call it recovery services because we help them recover between events so they can be at their best for the next event," said Rendeiro, underlining the vital role of the medical team in the recovery process. Calantoc's determination was evident as he expressed his readiness to return to the competition after Rendeiro's help. "I'm feeling amazing because all the physical therapists are out here for us athletes every day. We have so many sports; we must wake up and do it again. Our resilience keeps us going but having them around us gives us hope. Especially if you get injured, they are helping us out here." The help goes beyond the PT Rubdown. These athletes are continuing to recover and overcome, and it is not lost on this team of professionals who've pledged their support to this fantastic Army team. "That's why we have the medically related staff here, including the healthcare staff, physical therapists, athletic trainers, and physical therapy assistants. Our lead is a Physician's Assistant, and we also have a clinical social worker here for behavioral health. We've got the athletes covered! We want to help them in any area they need," said Rendeiro. This medical team is always sitting on ready, and Calantoc appreciates them, and the entire support system, for Team Army at the games. He smiles and shares his progress so far. "I got silver in powerlifting, cycling, rowing, and rugby, bronze and silver in archery, and silver in wheelchair basketball." He also won a silver in discus and a bronze in shotput. That's nine medals for the machine! Medals aside, Calantoc has a message for anyone experiencing a drastic health change. He encourages adaptive sports for physical and mental health: "Go out there and try it; your injury or illness is not the end of your life. Talk to and connect with an athlete to get inspiration. Seeing people better than me pumps me up and makes me want to do better. This mutual support within the athlete community is a powerful motivator. Go find someone better than you and get motivated!"... MORE

Physical Therapist at the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games

Adaptive Sports is not just a game changer; it’s a life changer!
July 2, 2024 — Retired Army Sgt. First Class Gabi Cha, a two-time Warrior Games athlete and participant in the 2022 Invictus Games, emphasizes the transformative power of adaptive sports for wounded, ill, or injured servicemembers. Competing at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Cha celebrates the magic of the Warrior Games held at Disney. Despite severe injuries from her 2007 deployment in Baghdad, resulting in multiple surgeries and right leg paralysis, Cha has triumphed in adaptive sports, earning multiple medals. She reflects on the life-changing impact of adaptive sports, particularly during challenging times such as the recent loss of her mother and grandmother. As a mentor and medalist in track, cycling, and field events, Cha continues to inspire and support fellow athletes, focusing on her future endeavors in sit-skiing, bobsledding, wheelchair rugby, and hand cycling marathons... MORE

U.S. Army veteran Gabi Cha participates in the seated shot put at field practice during the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games

Being here is such an honor
June 30, 2024 — Sgt. Noah Rydesky is thrilled to compete for Team Army at the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games in Orlando, describing the experience as an honor beyond anything he's ever known. His journey to the Games was harrowing; after being assaulted and left for dead in Colorado on February 13, 2022, he was found with frostbite and severe injuries. His recovery began in a hospital and continued at the Fort Carson Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU), where the supportive staff helped him overcome his physical and emotional challenges. Initially struggling in a dark place, Rydesky found solace and strength in adaptive sports, which he quickly embraced. Now, he competes in field, track, and swimming, his favorite sport. Rydesky's competitive spirit shines as he jokes about aiming for gold and proudly thanks his coaches and the SRU staff for their unwavering support... MORE

Team Army athlete Sgt. Noah Rydesky, with one of his gold medals in swimming, was flanked by athletes from Team Air Force and Team Marines

Adaptive sports helped me have a routine
June 29, 2024 — Army Specialist Alexis Pantoja's journey of recovery and resilience is nothing short of miraculous. After suffering a traumatic brain injury from a bicycle hit-and-run accident on September 24, 2022, Pantoja was in a coma for ten days and had to relearn basic skills such as walking, talking, and writing. His rehabilitation included participation in adaptive sports at the Fort Bliss Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU), which helped him establish a daily routine and regain his abilities. Now a competitor in the Department of Defense Warrior Games in Orlando, Florida, Pantoja reflects on his remarkable progress and the importance of adaptive sports in his recovery. Although he will not return to duty due to his medical condition, Pantoja proudly represents Team Army in field, track, and rowing events. His story highlights the power of perseverance, routine, and the support of a dedicated community, inspiring others with similar challenges to strive for a positive outcome... MORE

Spc. Alexis Pantoja of Team Army throws in the discus competition

“When I learned about the Warrior Games, it gave me hope again.”
June 28, 2024 — U.S. Army Specialist Darnell Boynton of the Georgia National Guard turned his post-injury challenges into a triumphant return to sports. After suffering a severe knee injury that required surgery in December 2021, Boynton struggled with his inactivity. However, his time at the Fort Stewart Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) and participation in adaptive sports reignited his passion. Despite being told he would never run or play sports again, Boynton's determination and coaching led to his recovery and selection for Team Army at the Warrior Games for the second time in three years. His story exemplifies resilience, as he encourages others to persist despite setbacks. Beyond the competition, Boynton values the camaraderie and support among athletes, which motivated him to reenlist. His journey underscores the importance of never giving up and finding strength in community... MORE

U.S. Army Spc. Darnell Boynton pushes out in front during the track competition

We have to give it our all; that’s why we are here!
June 27, 2024 — U.S. Army Staff Sgt. John Michael Britton has experienced a diverse and challenging military career, serving as an active duty MP, a reserve combat engineer, and finally, an active duty infantryman. His career took a dramatic turn in 2023 when a motorcycle accident in Alaska resulted in the loss of his right leg and a severe arm injury. Despite this setback, Britton has shown remarkable resilience and is competing in the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games in multiple events, including archery, field, swimming, and track. His favorite, archery, has helped him strengthen his arm and adapt to his new physical circumstances. Supported by his family and the rehabilitation teams at Joint Base San Antonio and Brooke Army Medical Center, Britton advocates for adaptive sports as a means of boosting confidence and embracing new challenges. His positive outlook serves as an inspiration for others facing similar obstacles... MORE

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. John Britton competes in the archery event

Anybody who wants to try an adaptive sport should just do it!
June 26, 2024 — Retired Army Spc. Michael Villagran, who lost his right leg after stepping on a bomb in Afghanistan in 2012, has found recovery and resilience through adaptive sports. Despite the challenges, he embraced adaptive sports, leading to significant improvement over time. Villagran competes in the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games in events such as wheelchair rugby and sitting volleyball, demonstrating his determination and hard work. His journey from limb salvage attempts to choosing amputation showcases his tenacity. Villagran's participation aims to inspire others facing medical challenges to explore adaptive sports. Supported by his three daughters, he prepares to represent the U.S. in the upcoming Invictus Winter Games. Villagran appreciates the camaraderie among his fellow athletes and is proud of Team Army's achievements... MORE

U.S. Army veteran Michael Villagran accepts Team Army's bronze medal for wheelchair rugby during the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games

I’m going to push through to put my team on top!
June 25, 2024 — U.S. Army Spc. Janmiguel Torres-Cruz is competing at the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games at Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports. Selected for Team Army after the 2024 Army Trials, Torres-Cruz is enthusiastic about participating in rugby, volleyball, and basketball. He helped Team Army secure their first-ever bronze in wheelchair rugby, showcasing the impact of adaptive sports on his recovery from severe knee and back injuries sustained during a deployment to Poland. Medically retired and now a full-time student in Puerto Rico, Torres-Cruz credits adaptive sports and the Army Recovery Care Program for transforming his mentality and aiding his physical and mental health. Engaged and planning a wedding, he remains passionate about sports, which continue to inspire and motivate him... MORE

U.S. Army Spc. Janmiguel TorresCruz prepares to return a serve at sitting volleyball practice for Team Army during the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games

Team Army Sgt. 1st Class Jack Peko: “I’m giving hope to those with a stroke”
June 24, 2024 — U.S. Army Sgt. First Class Jack Peko, who suffered a stroke in November 2022, is now recovering at the Ft. Riley Kansas Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) and competing in the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games. Learning about adaptive sports at the SRU, Peko represents Team Army in Orlando, using his experiences to inspire others with similar conditions. Despite using a wheelchair and working on his speech, he medaled in the precision air rifle competition and looks forward to competing in shot put and discus. Peko's wife, Gloriah, and their children support his journey, emphasizing the importance of adaptive sports in recovery and resilience... MORE

U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Jack Peko wins silver for Team Army in the precision air competition during the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games

Team Army and Team Australia - A Cancer connect and friends for life
June 23, 2024 — At the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games in Orlando, U.S. Army Capt. Hannah Wright and Australia Army Sgt. Emily Lahey formed an instant bond after discovering they both had cancer diagnoses during a chance meeting in the ladies' room. Lahey, on long-term medical leave due to terminal cancer, and Wright, a recent ovarian cancer survivor, found camaraderie and support in each other's stories. Both emphasized the importance of a positive mindset and participating in adaptive sports as part of their recovery. Despite ongoing treatments, they are committed to living fully and appreciating their ability to compete, with Wright winning bronze in powerlifting. Their newfound friendship exemplifies the unifying power of shared experiences and resilience... MORE

U.S. Army Capt. Hannah Wright, left, and Australia Army Sgt. Emily Lahey congratulate each other at the powerlifting competition

Team Army Staff Sgt. Derrick Thompson: “This is redemption year”
June 23, 2024 — Staff Sgt. Derrick Thompson views this year's Warrior Games in Orlando with greater preparedness and determination compared to last year's Warrior Games Challenge in San Diego. After being diagnosed with life-threatening diabetes three years ago and undergoing recovery at the Joint Base San Antonio Soldier Recovery Unit, Thompson participated cautiously last year. This year, he is fully committed, aiming for redemption, and has already won gold in the men’s 200-meter and silver in the 100-meter track events. Thompson is also competing in multiple sports, including cycling, archery, and wheelchair basketball. Beyond sports, he recently welcomed his third child and is preparing for retirement. His focus on health, bolstered by the Army Recovery Care Program and his SRU, has been crucial in his recovery. Embracing his new normal with positivity and gratitude, Thompson is motivated to be his best for his family and team, playfully confident about Team Army's success... MORE

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Derrick Thompson competes in the cycling event during the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games

Cpl. Patrick Dayton: “Adaptive sports are a lifeline to a life with others like me.”
June 21, 2024 — Retired Army Cpl. Patrick Dayton, who lost his leg in a motorcycle accident in 2022, found a renewed sense of purpose through adaptive sports and the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games. Initially not athletic, Dayton discovered the camaraderie and team spirit he missed from the military through the Warrior Games. After extensive rehab at the Center for the Intrepid, he embraced his new life as an amputee and immersed himself in adaptive sports. Now a proud member of Team Army, he competes in powerlifting, indoor rowing, swimming, and track, finding emotional and physical strength among fellow warriors. Dayton highlights the importance of adaptive sports in providing a new purpose and a supportive community for those with visible and invisible injuries... MORE

U.S. Army veteran Cpl. Patrick Dayton waits for his turn to compete in the field event at the 2024 Army Trials, Fort Liberty, North Carolina

2024 DOD Warrior Games
June 21, 2024 — The Department of Defense Warrior Games began today at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, Walt Disney World Resort, near Orlando, Florida, and will run through June 30, 2024. Hosted by the U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command, this event features hundreds of wounded, ill, and injured active duty and veteran service members competing in adaptive sports as part of their recovery. This 14th annual competition includes teams from various U.S. military branches and the Australian Defence Force. The Games provide a platform for recovery, wellness, and personal development through adaptive sports like archery, cycling, and wheelchair basketball. Veterans like Brandi Evans and Capt. Hannah Wright, who benefited from the Army Recovery Care Program, return to mentor new athletes. The event emphasizes the importance of adaptive sports in rehabilitation, helping service members adapt and thrive post-injury, fostering a supportive community that celebrates resilience and determination... MORE

Team Army is taking advantage of some practice time during a sitting volleyball workout during the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida

Going from competitor to mentor and coach
June 21, 2024 — Retired Army Sgt. 1st Class Greg Quarles, who sustained severe injuries during his eighth deployment in the Middle East, found a new purpose through adaptive sports at the Fort Moore Soldier Recovery Unit. Despite doubts and significant physical challenges, Quarles became a successful athlete, competing in the Department of Defense Warrior Games and representing Team USA at Invictus Games. Transitioning from competitor to coach, he now mentors others, emphasizing the transformative power of adaptive sports. He believes these sports help injured soldiers regain their physical fitness and mental well-being, advocating for the mindset and determination required to adapt and thrive despite injuries. Quarles continues to inspire through his coaching and his home inspection business, demonstrating that recovery and adaptation are lifelong journeys... MORE

Team Army coach Greg Quarles will have his first year of coaching indoor rowing competition at the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games in Orlando

Spc. Noah Strunk: “Warriors are always ready to go, and I am.”
June 20, 2024 — Army Spc. Noah Strunk is competing in the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games as he prepares to medically retire from the Army on June 28th. Strunk, a field artillery radar operator, joined the Army with plans to serve for twenty years but sustained a severe knee injury in 2022, leading to multiple surgeries and his participation in the Army Recovery Care Program. Adaptive sports became a crucial part of his recovery, giving him a new purpose and helping him overcome depression. Strunk's passion for the Army remains strong, and he is determined to excel in swimming, track, and cycling at the Warrior Games, viewing this competition as a continuation of his journey rather than its end... MORE

U.S. Army Spc. Noah Strunk is pumped and ready to compete with Team Army at the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games

“Coming here was meant to be.”
June 20, 2024 — Jackie White of Syracuse, New York, experienced an unexpected and memorable connection to her Soldier-grandfather during a family vacation to Orlando. Staying at a hotel hosting participants of the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games, White and her grandchildren learned about the competition for wounded, ill, and injured service members, including the Australian Defence Force. This surprise encounter prompted reflections on her grandfather, Army Pvt. Lawrence Spier, who served under Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower in World War II. The family, already familiar with military discussions at home, decided to attend the Warrior Games, finding inspiration in the Army Recovery Care Program and its support for today's Soldiers. White expressed gratitude for the program and the care it provides, contrasting it with the lack of support soldiers like her grandfather received. Excited by their newfound connection to the event, the family cheered, "Go, Team Army, we got this—all the way!"... MORE

Jackie White of Syracuse, New York, stands in the lobby of her Orlando Hotel, excited about supporting Team Army at the 2024 DOD Warrior Games

Team Army Ultimate Champion: “I had let go of the crutches in life, and the word can’t.”
June 6, 2024 — Retired Army Sgt. Justin Mathers, after a severe motorcycle accident left him unable to feel his legs, embarked on a remarkable recovery journey through the Fort Liberty Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU), leading him to compete in the Department of Defense Warrior Games. Following injuries sustained in Iraq and subsequent surgeries, Mathers discovered adaptive sports at the SRU, initially struggling but eventually finding inspiration from fellow veterans. Encouraged by his wife and a dedicated physical therapist, he shed weight and successfully competed in the 2022 Warrior Games, earning multiple medals. Determined to push his limits, Mathers transitioned from recumbent cycling to becoming a USA para-cycling national champion. Now, as he prepares for the 2024 Warrior Games, Mathers reflects on his transformative experience, crediting the SRU and adaptive sports for his recovery and renewed sense of purpose. With aspirations for the Paralympics and Team US at Invictus, he emphasizes the vital role of adaptive sports in helping veterans feel relevant and connected... MORE

Ret. Army Sgt. Justin Mathers trains with Former Team Army and Team US athlete Mike Murphy.