Press Release
☷Adaptive sports have molded our family
U.S. Army ( By Press Release office)
Apr 04,2024
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Liannie and Joel Rodriguez were spotted at the Wheelchair Rugby Camp in Fort Belvoir , Virginia in January 2024 . The Rodriguez family also attended the Department of Defense Warrior Games in Orlando in 2022 . Coach Joel Rodriguez was seen going over plays with Soldier athletes at the Wheelchair Rugby Camp . During Team Army ' s wheelchair rugby practice at the Warrior Games , Liannie Rodriguez was seen fixing a wheelchair on the floor . In April , we had the opportunity to chat with retired Army Staff Sgt Joel Rodriguez and his wife , Liannie , about the importance of adaptive sports . The Rodriguez family has been involved in adaptive sports after Joel ' s life - changing accident in 2014 . Despite his initial hope to play wheelchair basketball , Joel discovered wheelchair rugby and became a quadriplegic . Liannie initially had doubts but quickly realized that wheelchair rugby was Joel ' s sport . Ten years later , the Rodriguezs shared how adaptive sports transformed their lives , with Joel as a player and coach , and Liannie unexpectedly becoming a wheelchair mechanic . Liannie expressed her enjoyment and satisfaction in helping others in this role . Joel , who now plays professional rugby for the USA , says that being on Team Army and Team US has been about more than just winning medals and competing . According to Joel , adaptive sports give you a sense of purpose and provide a community of support during tough times . Liannie , whose husband now coaches wheelchair rugby for Team Army , adds that their entire family ' s life revolves around sports . For example , their son is now playing basketball and following in Joel ' s footsteps . When they attend each other ' s games , it becomes a family affair . The Rodriguez family values the lessons they have learned through adaptive sports and feel that it has had a positive impact on their lives , especially in terms of parenting . Liannie emphasizes the importance of discipline , sharing an example of their son ' s dedication at a basketball camp . Joel , proud of his son ' s accomplishments , believes that anyone facing a life change should consider getting involved in adaptive sports . He explains that even if you are not an athlete , participating in these sports or venues allows you to join a supportive community of individuals with similar injuries and mindsets . Joel compares the atmosphere of adaptive sports to the Warrior Games , highlighting the camaraderie and friendships that make it all worthwhile .
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