USA wins silver in sitting volleyball

Photo By Chief Petty Officer Mark Logico | The United States team poses for a picture as they placed second against the United Kingdom at the sitting volleyball finals in the Invictus Games. The U.K. defeated the U.S. in a best-out-of-five match. Over 400 competitors from 13 nations took part in the Invictus Games, an international sporting event for wounded, injured and sick service members. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Mark Logico/Released)  

LONDON, GREATER LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM

09.15.2014

Courtesy Story

Defense Media Activity - Proper         

LONDON – USA Team fell in straight sets to Team Britain in the sitting volleyball final here Sept. 14.

The United States team kept it close throughout and was happy to take home a silver medal, but the game meant the final event for these wounded warriors so they took a moment to reflect.

“I just realized today that the only athletes who get an opportunity to do this are athletes who compete in the Olympics and Paralympics,” said Army Sgt. Delvin Maston. “For us to be chosen, it’s an honor to put the colors on and go out and display some talent.”

USA Team took silver in all three team events: Sitting volleyball, wheelchair basketball and wheelchair rugby.

“In every sport, in the team sport aspect, I’ve noticed that they’ve been well prepared” Maston said. “Those guys were well prepared and they stuck to their plan.”

The atmosphere of the Copper Box, which was the venue for the team sports, was electric. Roughly 6000 people packed the seats and cheered for every country, in addition to their own.

Though competition was fierce throughout each game, the competitors maintain a high level of respect for each other.

“I think it’s bringing countries closer,” said Air Force Tech. Sgt. Chad Lukkes. “I’ve met friends from every single country out here who, without this experience, I probably would’ve never met.”

The idea for the Invictus Games was created by a visit from Prince Henry of Wales to the annual Warrior Games in Colorado Springs, Co. However, unlike the Warrior Games, which focus on inter-service competition, the Invictus Games focus on international competition.

The word ‘Invictus’ means ‘unconquered.’ The games were created to embody the fighting spirit of wounded, injured and sick warriors, and recognize the road to recovery they are on through sporting achievement.

The Invictus Games featured athletes competing in various Paralympic-style events, including swimming, track and field, seated volleyball, wheelchair basketball, and wheelchair rugby, among others.

“One thing that I’ve noticed is not only has this changed each and every one of our lives … but it changes the culture too,” said Army Sgt. (ret) Sean Hook. “I think this is changing the culture worldwide. This is just the tip of the iceberg."

• Date Taken: 09.15.2014
• Date Posted: 09.15.2014 11:44
• Story ID: 142177
• Location: LONDON, GREATER LONDON, GB