Brent Poppen
In 1991, I was in a wrestling accident at a church camp. A spinal-cord injury (SCI) severe enough to classify me as an incomplete quadriplegic (some function in all four of my extremities), ended my hopes of continuing my athletic career in college. Never one to sit back and watch others "do," I am one who "does." Shortly after my accident, the worlds of quad rugby and tennis received a new competitor. I am a two sport Paralympic athlete. I compete in wheelchair rugby and wheelchair tennis. I  won a bronze medal in rugby at the 2004 Paralympics. I compete in both all over the world. I continue to speak to students and organizations. I also teach disabled wakeboarding. My level of injury is the cervical vertebras 6 and 7. It is a constant struggle to break the stereotypes and associations that are attached to being a quadriplegic.





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Biography
Obstacles have shaped who I am. My life has taught me to live for today because tomorrow may not always come, or at least not the tomorrow I had planned on. For me, it is not the end result that truly matters but the journey leading me to my destiny.


Speaking Opportunities
Thanks for the opportunity to share my life’s experiences. I have spoken to grades ranging from second to twelfth grade. I continue to speak outside of schools as well.

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Competition Information
May 20th, 2008 is the day we find out who qualifies for the 2008 Paralympics in Wheelchair Tennis. The Top three ranked Untied States players in the quad open division will be selected.
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