Dear Athletes

It is an honor to be the guest Paralympic Athlete for the 2008 Mid-America Games. As a Paralympic wheelchair rugby player, I know the hard work and dedication that it takes to be an athlete, and even more work if you want to compete for your country as a U.S. Paralympian. All of you are here today because you have set goals, worked hard and focused on your abilities. This demonstrates to me your true spirit to strive to be the very best you can be, despite your disability, and to always challenge your self to be even better!

I am proud to be here to support all the participants and all of your hard work and dedication to be here as a competitor. We all know there are hurdles we must face so you too should feel proud to be here competing at the Mid America Games.

Remember to have fun and race hard and I will see you at the finish line.

Best of luck

Bryan Kirkland

Wheelchair Rugby

Team USA