Three SDSU adapted athletes will compete in the US Paralympic Track and Field Team Trials

Michelle Cross, Parker Harvey and Max Rohn's journeys have been marked by perseverance and grit. Now that each adapted athlete has met qualifications for the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) sanctioned competitions, the U.S. Paralympic Track and Field Team Trials are the final step in securing a place with Team USA.

The athletes are part of San Diego State University’s Adapted Athletics, a program of Associated Students that aims to provide a supportive environment for adaptive athletes through education, coaching and mentorship.

"I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to compete at the Paralympic Trials and to be sharing the track with incredible teammates and competitors," said Cross, a graduate student majoring in rehabilitation counseling. "All the work and training I have put in these past two years will be worth it." 

Cross, born with cerebral palsy, is slated to compete in the 100m and 200m Sprint in the T37 classification. With an extensive athletic career, Cross has represented Team USA in prior years and competed in the World Para Athletics Junior Championships (2017, 2019) and the Para PanAmerican Games (2019, 2023).

"I have been determined to compete at Trials since the last ones were held (in 2021) and I am grateful to be sharing the track with incredible teammates and competitors," said Cross.

Harvey, an elite adapted athletics student-athlete, will be competing on both the track and the field in the 100m Sprint and Javelin in the T47 and F46 classification for upper limb impairment. Harvey, who has amniotic band syndrome and was born with one hand, approaches competition day with appreciation for the guidance he receives from his coaches.

"Trusting my coaches' process, by following the regimen they made just for me is exactly what will help me achieve the results I am looking for," Harvey said. 

Rohn, a military veteran and elite athlete who sustained combat injuries to both legs in Fallujah, Iraq, will compete in the F64 discus trials. He has previously competed in the Invictus Games (2014, 2016) and won silver at the 2023 Para PanAmerican Games.

Noting the importance of physical and mental conditioning, Rohn added that he plans to follow a rigorous training schedule encompassing conditioning and technical practice.

"I'm also working closely with my coach to fine-tune my techniques and strategies. Mental preparation is also key, so I'm focusing on visualization and staying positive," said Rohn.

While all three athletes remained focused on training and preparing for the trials, they are receiving unwavering support from their teammates and coaches.

"Making it to the US Paralympic Team Trials is a result of all three athletes' hard work and determination,” said A.J. Munoz-Bond, director of SDSU Adapted Athletics. “This opportunity represents their years of dedication, ability to overcome obstacles and challenges, and the skills they have developed. Their relentless pursuit of achievement has led them to thrive when faced with challenges." 

The U.S. Paralympic Team Trials will take place July 18-20, and the athletes selected to represent Team USA will be announced July 21. Community members are encouraged to show their support by following SDSU Adapted Athletics on Instagram @sdsuadaptedathletics, where they will share updates and a live stream link to the events.