Adaptive Athletes Play Strong at National Veterans Wheelchair Games
By David Porter, Public Affairs Officer - Office of the Medical Center Director
The 14 members of Team Martinsburg arrived in Minneapolis, MN, on July 17 for the 44th Annual National Veterans Wheelchair Games with one thought: Play Strong in 2025!
And that’s exactly what they did during the week-long competition, winning 31 medals in events such as archery, swimming, javelin, cycling, air rifle and more.
“It’s exciting to see so many medals after all the work the training throughout the year. Adaptive sports and competition really help Veterans build skills and confidence and reach their rehabilitation goals,” stated team coach Darren Yowell.
"Adaptive sports changed my life,” said Marine Corps Veteran Terri Tulley. “The training motivates me, and my whole family gets involved. I love that my daughter gets to see me as an athlete who competes and wins.” Tulley medaled in swimming, adaptive fitness, field events, and archery this year.
The NVWG featured over 20 events this year and over 500 athletes from multiple eras, including World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the post-9/11 era. It’s the world’s largest annual wheelchair sports and rehabilitation event solely for military veterans and fosters respect and opportunities for those with disabilities. All U.S. veterans with spinal cord injuries, amputations, multiple sclerosis, or other central neurological conditions who require a wheelchair for athletic competition are eligible to participate.
Veterans enrolled at the Martinsburg VA Medical Center can get started in adaptive sports by asking their provider about a recreation therapy consult. Team coach Mike Clark said he’s looking forward to welcoming new Veterans to the 2026 team. “They will work hard, but it’s a very supportive environment. For me, it’s rewarding to see them tackle challenges and win.”