October Para-Athlete of the Month: Darek Symonowicz

A message from the athlete:

"I got into para sport in 2012 after a motorcycle accident in 2008. Pursuing sport at the highest of levels enabled me to regain some remnants of normalcy in my life. It gave me a goal to work towards and this was missing in my life post accident. I now have the honour of wearing the Maple leaf on my chest when competing at the highest of levels and this fills my heart with pride and gratitude. It shows that with hard work and determination one can attain any goal they set for themselves."

About Darek:

#13 from Toronto, Darek joined the men's national sitting volleyball team in 2012 after his amputation. He is a Bronze medalist of the Para Pan-Am Games in Lima, Peru. Also: plays Wheelchair Basketball, swims, enjoys rock climbing and cycling.

Special thank you to Darek for his advocacy for para-sports and his kindness for working with us! Go follow Darek on Instagram @dareksymonowicz for more about his journey and athletic career.