Abhay Singh
Athletes Steve Serio, a renowned figure in wheelchair basketball, and Nicky Nieves, a standout sitting volleyball player, have garnered the admirable distinction of being designated as the esteemed flag bearers for Team USA, a role that holds immense honor and significance.
Their upcoming portrayal of American pride and camaraderie at the commencement of the prestigious 2024 Paris Paralympic Games on Aug. 28 embodies the pinnacle of their athletic careers, showcasing their dedication and representing the nation with unwavering spirit and excellence.
Serio is considered incomplete paraplegic
Serio, who underwent spinal tumor surgery at 11 months old, is considered incomplete paraplegic. He will compete in the 2024 Paris Games, marking his fifth Paralympics. He has won two gold medals and one bronze at the 2008 Beijing, 2012 London, 2016 Rio de Janeiro, and 2020 Tokyo Games.
Team USA posted a video of 36-year-old Serio looking back at his headshots from previous Games on Instagram ahead of the Paris Paralympic Games. He recalled taking the 2008 Beijing picture a few days before he turned 21 and participated in his first Games in the video. The athlete is now prepared to defend his gold medal, having competed for 16 years.
Nieves is already a gold medalist as well
Nieves, a 34-year-old Paralympian born without a left hand, won a gold medal at the Rio de Janeiro Games in 2016. She has been playing volleyball since sixth grade and has also been a cheerleader and track and field star in school.
On Thursday, a picture of Nieves standing with a few of her USA women’s sitting volleyball teammates was posted on the Team USA Instagram account.
For the first time, the Paralympic Summer Games will take place in the City of Light. The 2024 Paris Paralympic Games will begin with an opening ceremony on August 28 and close on September 8. More than 4,000 competitors from around the world will showcase their abilities in 22 different sports.
The opening ceremony is unique in that it will take place at the Champs-Elysées and Place de la Concorde rather than a stadium.
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