Zion Redington Becomes Youngest Paralympic Rugby Player

Zion Redington, an 18-year-old athlete from Tennessee, has made history as the youngest member of the U.S. wheelchair rugby team at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. Born with ectrodactyly, Redington underwent multiple surgeries, including the amputation of both feet at age six, which led him to adaptive sports. After trying various sports, he was scouted for wheelchair rugby while playing basketball, ultimately joining a team that better suited his age and competitive spirit. Meanwhile, the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater has made a significant impact on the U.S. wheelchair basketball program, with eight alumni representing Team USA at the Paralympics. The school boasts a storied history in wheelchair basketball, contributing numerous athletes to both the men's and women's national teams. The Paralympic Games highlight these athletes' resilience and the importance of adaptive sports in their lives.