Local Athlete Prepares For Paralympic Games, Talks Sitting Volleyball

The 2024 Paris Paralympic Games are set to begin next week, and the USA Sitting Volleyball team is on a mission to secure its third consecutive gold medal.

Jordan Ryan had the opportunity to speak with two-time Paralympian Alexis Shifflett just before her departure for Paris Monday morning on The Arca Continental Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages Porch.

Shifflett explained that the game is similar to volleyball, with six players on the court, but the court is smaller, and the rules are different.

"Our court is exponentially smaller as you can see," Shifflett said. "One of our fun little substitution things is we can only go on the court one time in a set and come off."

She said she is most looking forward to traveling and competing with her team.

"All of our fans will be back, so that will be very fun. I'm also looking forward to just seeing France," Shifflett said.

She said she has grown up playing sports even though she had her leg amputated as a baby.

" I was playing at a club tournament in Minnesota, and the assistant coach at the time also was playing at the same tournament, and she had asked me if I was interested or a part of the Paralympics," Shifflett said.

The USA Sitting Volleyball team, known for their resilience and skill, is poised to make a strong showing at the upcoming Paralympics.

Fans can tune in to support the team as they aim to continue their winning streak in Paris.