Minnesota Athletes Shine Ahead of Paralympics
- Minnesota sitting volleyball team members are on a quest to help USA win their 3rd consecutive gold at the Paralympics.
- The Paralympics are set to begin in roughly two weeks, and Minnesota athletes are standing out on Team USA.
- The Minnesota athletes are making a name for themselves as they aim for gold in the Paralympics.
MINNEAPOLIS — As the Paralympics approach, Minnesota athletes are once again making significant contributions to Team USA. Lexi Shifflett, a standout from Waseca, has already made her mark by winning two gold medals with the USA sitting volleyball team in Rio de Janeiro and Tokyo. At just 16 years old, she earned a spot on the national team and expressed her excitement about competing again, stating, "I'm incredibly honored to do it again." Shifflett's journey has been shaped by her resilience; she was born with a congenital condition that led to a knee amputation as a baby. Despite this, she thrived in club and high school volleyball, which laid the foundation for her success in sitting volleyball. She explained the unique adaptations required for the sport, noting, "You're translating everything from your hips and up, down to the floor, and your hands are your feet." Another Minnesota athlete, who faced her own challenges, is also part of the national team. After a motorcycle accident in September 2020 resulted in a knee amputation, she remained committed to volleyball. Selected as an alternate for the Paris Paralympic team, she emphasized the importance of facing adversity with a positive mindset, saying, "It's important to take it as it is, and face it head-on." The USA sitting volleyball team is set to kick off their Paralympic campaign on August 30 against China, showcasing the determination and talent of these Minnesota athletes on the world stage.