The Veterans who participate in SPIRE’s Adaptive Sports Program recently showcased their incredible skills and determination at the National Veteran Wheelchair Games held in Portland, Oregon. Led by Keith Webb, SPIRE’s Director of Community Relations, the program empowers Veterans through adaptive sports and helps them thrive in competitive environments.

The games saw over 600 Veterans from across the country come together to demonstrate their determination and commitment in all manner of adaptive sports competitions. Among them, a remarkable group of 20 that train in SPIRE’s program participated in a showcase of their unwavering spirit and strength. The results were outstanding with an impressive 14 of the 20 SPIRE Veterans earning medals for their exceptional performances.

Out of the 32 medals won by SPIRE’s athletes, 20 of them were well-deserved first-place victories. An additional 5 Veterans demonstrated their remarkable skills and earned second-place medals in their respective sports. 7 of the school’s Veterans achieved a commendable third-place finish, rounding out the impressive tally of medals won by the athletes from SPIRE’s Adaptive Sports Program.

One of SPIRE’s adaptive sport athletes, Larry Bostic expressed his enjoyment of the event, saying, “We are truly blessed to have trainers, therapists and coaches that provide us with the ability to go to Portland, OR and represent Ohio. I had a tremendous time participating, learning and succeeding for this year, and years to come. I want to thank my wife who is my caregiver, the Veterans Administration, Paralyzed Veterans of America and SPIRE Academy for preparing us for this awe-inspiring experience. These events force me to rely on myself to succeed and represent my home-state of Ohio!”

The success of the athletes from this program is a testament to the commitment and dedication of the athletes themselves, their coaches and the training they receive at SPIRE. As this program continues thriving, the school congratulates these athletes on their fantastic accomplishments.