Meet the U of A athletes representing the US at the 2024 Paralympic Games

The University of Arizona (U of A) has a strong presence at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris, with several current and former Wildcats representing Team USA across multiple sports. These athletes, supported by the university’s renowned Adaptive Athletics Program, are set to compete on the world stage from August 28th onwards.

We compiled a list of athletes to know based on a news release from U of A.

Wheelchair Rugby

Josh Wheeler, a recent graduate of the Eller College of Management, is a key player on Team USA’s wheelchair rugby squad. A silver medalist in both the 2016 and 2020 Paralympic Games, Wheeler is aiming for gold this year. He credits his time at U of A for honing his skills and preparing him for international competition.

Other U of A-affiliated athletes on the wheelchair rugby team include:

• Chuck Aoki: A U of A alumnus and Team USA co-captain, competing in his fourth Paralympics.
• Lee Fredette: A two-time silver medalist and former community member of the U of A wheelchair rugby team.
• Chuck Melton: Another former community member of the U of A team, participating in his third Paralympics.
• Josh O’Neill: A former U of A community team member making his Paralympic debut.

Wheelchair Basketball

The U of A is well-represented in wheelchair basketball:

• Josie Aslakson: A U of A alumna and head coach of the women’s wheelchair basketball team, aiming to improve on her 2020 bronze medal.
• Courtney Ryan: Another U of A alumna and assistant coach of the women’s team, also a 2020 bronze medalist.

Other Sports

U of A athletes are competing in various other Paralympic sports:

• Sitting Volleyball: Whitney Dosty, a former U of A standing volleyball player, is defending her 2020 gold medal.
• Wheelchair Tennis: Dana Mathewson, a two-time Paralympian who attended U of A on an athletic scholarship.
• Track and Field: Chelsea Stein, a current U of A undergraduate and wheelchair racing team member, is making her Paralympic debut in the 100-meter T53 category.

Adaptive Athletics Program

The University of Arizona’s Adaptive Athletics Program, part of the Disability Resource Center, has a 50-year history of supporting adaptive and wheelchair sports. It has sent 51 athletes to the Paralympics over the years, cementing its reputation as a leader in adaptive sports.

As these athletes compete in Paris, they carry with them not only the hopes of Team USA but also the pride of the University of Arizona. Their performances will undoubtedly inspire future generations of adaptive athletes and showcase the university’s commitment to inclusive excellence in sports.