Deepthi Jeevanji To Become India’s First Paralympian With An Intellectual Impairment

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Deepthi Jeevanji is set to script history by becoming India’s first-ever athlete with intellectual impairment to be at any Paralympic Games, with a strong prospect of winning a medal for her country too after her splendid world record-breaking performance at Kobe 2024. As she prepares for her Paralympic debut in Paris 2024, the world watches in anticipation of her continued success. 

For years, Deepthi Jeevanji’s parents endured taunts from their fellow villagers in Telangana’s Kalleda hamlet for having an “intellectually impaired” child. However, today they celebrate her as a world record holder and a beacon of inspiration. 

Born to daily wage labourers J.Yadagiri and J.Dhanalaxmi in the Warangal district of Hyderabad, India, 20-year-old Deepthi faced numerous challenges growing up. Financial struggles and societal prejudices were part of her everyday life, with villagers doubting her potential and prospects for the future. Despite these obstacles, her athletic talent shone through early on. Discovered at a school meeting in Warangal by coach Nagpuri Ramesh, Deepthi’s journey into professional athletics began. 

Financial difficulties nearly derailed her training. Ramesh, recognizing her potential, ensured she could travel to Hyderabad for proper training, even covering her bus fare.  

“She was spotted in a school meet through a PE teacher in Warangal. When I told them to send Deepthi, they said they didn’t have money for bus fare. I told them to just board a bus and give me the phone number of the conductor,” Ramesh recalled during an interview with PTI.  

“After that, I explained to the bus conductor to let her board the bus and told him I would pay the fare when she reached Hyderabad. During the 130 km journey from Warangal to Hyderabad, I kept calling the bus conductor inquiring about her safety.” 

Her parents’ financial struggles included selling their half-acre land, but their fortunes began to change when Deepthi started winning medals. With the Rs 30 lakh reward from her gold medal at the Para Asian Games, they bought back their land and resumed farming.  

“Deepthi’s parents are now doing better. They have bought land with the money Deepthi got as a reward for her achievements and have started farming,” Ramesh said. 

Deepthi Jeevanji waving the Indian flag at the opening ceremony of the 2023 Virtus Global Games opening and at Kobe 2024. Photo Credit: Lucy Percival and Kobe 2024

Deepthi received her international eligibility with Virtus in July 2022 which opened doors for her at the international para-sports competitions. 

“My first international competition was Virtus Global Games. After playing these games I know something. I come to know about Para sports. I also came to know about Asian games through Virtus and slowly about the Paralympic Games,” Deepthi told Virtus.  

Deepthi’s breakthrough came with her gold medal win in the 400m T20 category at the Hangzhou Asian Para Games, setting an Asian record time of 56.69 seconds. This victory transformed her life and the perception of her community.

“After Deepthi won gold in the Hangzhou Asian Para Games last year, the scenario changed. Now, the same villagers are praising them for being parents of Deepthi. They told me this when they came to Hyderabad after the Para Asian Games. They told me even the district collector and politicians of the area visited their house, which was a shock to them, considering how things have changed.” 

Deepthi went on to win two silvers in Women’s II1 200m and 400m at 2023 Virtus Global Games later.

Training Deepthi was not without its challenges. Ramesh noted,

“You cannot teach her too many techniques as she is slow in learning things. If you do that, she will get confused.”

Nonetheless, his innovative coaching and support from others, including Chief National Badminton Coach Pullela Gopichand, who facilitated her certification as “intellectually impaired,” allowed her to compete in para meets. 

Deepthi’s rise was further supported by the Gopi-Mytrah Foundation, which sponsored her participation in international events, enabling her to secure the international license required for para-athletes. This sponsorship was crucial in her journey to becoming a world record holder.

On May 20, 2024, Deepthi Jeevanji broke the T20 world record with a time of 55.07 seconds in the women’s 400m race at the Para Athletics World Championship in Kobe, Japan. This victory not only earned her a gold medal but also secured her qualification for the upcoming Paris Paralympics.

Deepthi Jeevanji’s record-breaking performance at Kobe 2024 is a testament to her resilience and determination. Her success has brought immense pride to her family and village and has inspired countless others facing similar challenges.

Deepthi’s story is a powerful reminder of the extraordinary potential within each of us, regardless of the obstacles we face. Her triumph at Kobe 2024 is not just a personal victory but a victory for all who dare to dream and work tirelessly to achieve those dreams.

Join Virtus’ #MakingInvisibleVISIBLE campaign in making Deepthi’s journey Visible. 

WHAT IS INTELLECTUAL IMPAIRMENT? 

 Intellectual impairment is an umbrella term to describe a vast and neuro-diverse group of people with varying types of cognitive impairments including intellectual disability, Down syndrome and autism. Having an intellectual impairment impacts how an athlete understands the rules of the sport, interacts with other players, and adjusts to different environments. They might find it difficult to manage reaction times, remember specific race or game strategies, retain focus for long period of time, or maintaining impulse control.  

Sam Von Einem at GG2023. Photo Credit: T.NGUYEN

Sam Von Einem Aiming To Turn His Silvers from Rio 2016 And Tokyo 2020 Into Gold at Paris 2024

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Samuel Von Einem is preparing for his third Paralympic Games in Paris 2024 and his journey is a testament to perseverance, passion, and the power of sport. From his early days in Abu Dhabi to the Paralympic podium, Sam’s story is one of overcoming challenges and achieving greatness.

Sam’s love for sports began with tennis and soccer, but when his family relocated to Abu Dhabi in 2003, the intense heat made outdoor sports nearly impossible.

“When we moved to the UAE, the weather was too warm for tennis and soccer. We had a table tennis table at home, and the school also taught table tennis, so I started playing a lot with family and friends.”

This was the start of what would become a remarkable career in Para Table Tennis. Returning to Australia, Sam began competing in local tournaments at the age of 11. By 18, he was representing Australia on the international stage, never looking back.

“My family, especially my twin brother, and my coach were my biggest supporters. My mom helped me get classified in Para sport, which opened the door to the Paralympic Games,” says Sam.

Sam made his Paralympic debut at the Rio 2016 Games, where he won Australia’s first medal in table tennis since 1984.

“Winning silver in Rio was a dream come true, competing against the best in the world and representing my country was an incredible experience,” Sam shares.

Sam Von Einem at Tokyo 2020 and Virtus Global Games 2023. Photo Credit: T.NGUYEN

In Tokyo 2020, Sam once again claimed silver in the Men’s Singles Class 11 event, after a tightly contested match against Hungary’s Peter Palos.

“Every competition teaches me something new. I’ve learned how to prepare better, stay focused, and remember that while winning is important, playing well and learning from each match is what really matters.”

Now, as the current ITTF World no. 1 gears up for Paris 2024, his sights are set on turning his silvers from Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 into solid gold.

“Winning a medal at the Paralympics is a huge honour, but my goal for Paris is to go one step further and bring home the gold,” he says.

His training regimen is intense, with 5-6 table tennis sessions a week, along with gym work and appointments with his physio and psychologist.

Sam is quick to express his gratitude to those who have supported him along the way.

“A big thank you to my family, friends, training partners, and everyone at Table Tennis Australia and the South Australian Sports Institute. Their support has been crucial in helping me achieve my goals.”

For others with intellectual impairments considering sports, Sam’s advice is simple yet powerful: “Go for it! Remember that winning isn’t everything—what matters is trying your best and enjoying the sport. Sports are about having fun and connecting with people who share your interests.”

As Sam prepares for the next chapter in his extraordinary journey, he remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for athletes around the world. His story is a reminder that with passion, perseverance, and the right support, anything is possible.

WHAT IS INTELLECTUAL IMPAIRMENT?

Intellectual impairment is an umbrella term to describe a vast and neuro-diverse group of people with varying types of cognitive impairments including intellectual disability, Down syndrome and autism. Having an intellectual impairment impacts how an athlete understands the rules of the sport, interacts with other players, and adjusts to different environments. They might find it difficult to manage reaction times, remember specific race or game strategies, retain focus for long period of time, or maintaining impulse control.

Dieng Aiming To Replicate His Global Games Success At Paris 2024

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Ndiaga Dieng, two-time Virtus Global Games Champion and Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Bronze medalist is all set to compete at Paris 2024. Affectionately known as “Chenga,” embodies the spirit of perseverance and triumph. Hailing from Italy, Dieng clinched the bronze medal in the 1500m event at Tokyo 2020. He won first place in the 800m and 1500m races at the Virtus Global Games in 2019 and also dominated the 800m and 1500m races again in Vichy 2023 along with gold in the Men’s II1 4x100m relay.  

Originally from Senegal, Ndiaga’s path to athletic greatness was not without its challenges.  

“In Senegal, I attended a Quran school before coming here and stayed with my grandparents and uncles. I wasn’t doing well in school and causing a bit of trouble so my aunt called my dad and asked him to bring me here to Italy. So, my father did the paperwork and brought me here. My family was already here, I stayed with my grandparents and uncles, and as soon as I arrived in Italy,” Chenga told Virtus.  

Arriving in Italy in 2012, he found comfort in sports, particularly football, amidst the transition to a new country and culture. However, it was athletics that captured his heart, thanks to the encouragement of his coach Maurizio and the support of Virtus Italy- FISDIR. Ndiega received his international eligibility with Virtus in January 2018, which opened doors for her at the international para-sports competitions. 

Ndiega Dieng anchored Italy’s win in the II1 Men’s 4x100m relay at the 2023 Virtus Global Games (L) and posed with the fellow medalists at GG2023. Photo Credit: Kellerman lens

Despite facing initial doubts and uncertainties, Ndiaga’s commitment to his skills propelled him forward. His relentless pursuit of excellence, coupled with unwavering dedication, saw him rise to the podium at prestigious competitions like the Virtus Global Games, World Championships and the Paralympic Games. 

Reflecting on his journey, Ndiaga credits his brother Mohamed as his biggest fan and source of motivation. He acknowledges the support of federations like FISDIR, whose unwavering assistance helped pave the way for his success. 

Looking ahead to Paris 2024, Ndiaga sets his sights on new heights, aiming to bring glory to Italy once again. With determination in his heart and a fierce competitive spirit, he faces the challenges head-on, ready to conquer new milestones.  

“I didn’t think I would get to represent Italy one day on international stages like Virtus Global Games or Paralympic Games. I didn’t take this (athletics) seriously, then gradually, since I was getting good results, I thought: Why don’t I focus better, to see what I can do?” My goal for Paris 2024 is to replicate my win from the 2023 Virtus Global Games, get on the podium and raise the Italian flag as high as possible, both in the 400 meters and the 1500 meters.” 

Beyond the accolades and medals, Ndiaga’s story serves as an inspiration to young athletes with intellectual impairments. His message to younger athletes with intellectual impairment is simple yet powerful: Never give up, for anything worth achieving never comes easy. 

As we applaud Ndiaga Dieng, let his journey remind us that with perseverance, resilience, and unwavering determination, anything is possible. Here’s to chasing dreams and defying odds – just like Chenga. 

WHAT IS INTELLECTUAL IMPAIRMENT? 

Intellectual impairment is an umbrella term to describe a vast and neuro-diverse group of people with varying types of cognitive impairments including intellectual disability, Down syndrome and autism. Having an intellectual impairment impacts how an athlete understands the rules of the sport, interacts with other players, and adjusts to different environments. They might find it difficult to manage reaction times, remember specific race or game strategies, retain focus for long period of time, or maintaining impulse control. 

Overcoming Autism: Florian Van Acker’s Journey From Romanian Orphanage To The Paralympic Podium With Belgian Flag

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Florian Von Acker is one of the finest table tennis athletes with autism who competes for Belgium at the Paralympic Games. As he prepares to take on the stage at his third Paralympic Games at the Paris 2024, let’s find out more about the life journey this splendid athlete has walked.  

At the age of 19, Florian Van Acker had already made his mark in the world of table tennis, carrying Belgium to the highest levels of the sport. Competing in the Class 11 category for athletes with intellectual impairment, Florian became a symbol of perseverance and success, earning accolades on the global stage. 

Born in Zalău, Romania, Florian faced a challenging start to life. Abandoned shortly after birth, he spent his early years in an orphanage and a transitional foster family before being adopted at three and a half by Belgian couple Eric and Dora Van Acker-Debedts. Reflecting on their initial experiences with Florian, Dora shared,  

“He was active, impulsive, agitated. At first, we thought that this agitation and tension were due to his stay at the orphanage. At school, if something did not interest him, he would close his book, and that was it, full stop. He agreed to make a little effort only if he liked his teacher. Fortunately, this evolved positively over the years.” 

Florian’s journey was far from easy. Growing up with autism and an intellectual impairment, he faced numerous hurdles in communication, autonomy, and social interaction. Despite these challenges, Florian found peace and strength in sports.  

“Because of my autism and my slight intellectual impairment, it is not always easy for me to join a group of people who don’t know me. They do not see that I have a disability.” 

“Thanks to sport, I am calmer and I have more confidence in my abilities,” he said. 

Florian Acker at Class 11 Men’s Singles semi-final match at Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. Photo Credit: ITTF

Florian received his international eligibility with Virtus in February 2012, which opened doors for him at the international para-sports competitions. 

His introduction to table tennis came through a friend, William, who taught him the sport and believed in his potential. This belief paid off, as Florian quickly rose through the ranks, making his debut at the World Championships in 2014, where he won a bronze medal. A year later, he became the European Champion in Class 11. 

Florian’s biggest breakthrough moment came at the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games, where he claimed gold in the Class 11 category. Describing this monumental achievement, Florian said, 

 “It was a dream come true. It’s an incredible feeling, like the excitement of a child the day before the start of the summer holidays.” 

His success continued, and despite the challenges of adapting to new environments and the pressures of competition, Florian secured a bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. His disciplined approach towards the preparation, including arriving in Rio a week early to acclimate and maintaining a strict routine, showcased his dedication and resilience.  

“It is not easy for a person with autism to get out of his usual environment, especially in a stressful context,” he noted. 

Now, Florian is gearing up for his third Paralympic Games. With his eyes set on more victories, he remains focused on the future. Beyond his personal achievements, Florian’s story serves as a beacon of hope and motivation for others. His advice to fellow autistic individuals is heartfelt and powerful:  

“First and foremost, believe in yourself and those who support you, help you, and believe in you… My motto, ‘never give up’ is as relevant to sport as it is to life in general.” 

Florian’s journey from a challenging start in Romania to the pinnacle of representing and winning medals for Belgium at the Paralympic Games is a testament to his unwavering spirit and determination. His achievements have not only brought pride to his family and country but have also inspired countless others facing similar challenges. As he prepares for the upcoming Paralympic Games, the world will be watching, ready to witness more of Florian Van Acker’s remarkable journey of triumph and resilience. 

Florian’s story underscores the extraordinary potential within each of us, proving that with support, belief, and relentless effort, we can overcome any obstacle and achieve greatness. 

Join Virtus’ #MakingInvisibleVISIBLE campaign in making Florian’s journey Visible. 

WHAT IS INTELLECTUAL IMPAIRMENT? 

Intellectual impairment is an umbrella term to describe a vast and neuro-diverse group of people with varying types of cognitive impairments including intellectual disability, Down syndrome and autism. Having an intellectual impairment impacts how an athlete understands the rules of the sport, interacts with other players, and adjusts to different environments. They might find it difficult to manage reaction times, remember specific race or game strategies, retain focus for long period of time, or maintaining impulse control.  

Naohide Yamaguchi Aims to Extend His SB14 100m Breaststroke Reign at Paris 2024

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Naohide Yamaguchi, a distinguished para swimmer from Imabari-city in Ehime Prefecture, Japan, is gearing up to make a splash at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. Living with his parents and supported by his older sister, Naohide’s journey to the pinnacle of para-swimming is both inspiring and remarkable. 

 Naohide’s love for sports began in childhood which got carried forward in life with the opportunities it provided Noahide with. 

 “I was a very active child, and I have loved sports since childhood. Swimming is where I can express myself and fully demonstrate my abilities,” Naohide explains. 

Training rigorously at a local swim club, he dedicates 2.0-2.5 hours per session, with evening practices on weekdays and early morning practices on weekends. This dedication has paid off in record-breaking achievements and a promising future. 

Naohide received his international eligibility with Virtus in January 2019 which opened doors for him at the international elite para-sports competitions. 

Yamaguchi dominated the SB14 100m Breaststroke podium at the Madeira 2022 and 2022 Virtus OA Games. Photo Credit: Madeira 2022 and 2022 OA Games.

Naohide made waves at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games by breaking the world record in the SB 100m Breaststroke event with a time of 1:03.77. He continued his record-breaking streak at the 2022 Madeira Para-Swimming Championship, setting a championship record of 1:04.46 in the same event and establishing a Virtus Asia Record in the Men’s 200m Breaststroke II1 category with a time of 2:21.26. As a Paralympic champion and holder of multiple records, Naohide brings exceptional form and unmatched skills to the breaststroke events. 

Specializing in breaststroke, Naohide finds the most challenging aspect of his training to be maintaining body balance and shifting weight during swimming.  

“The most challenging thing is how I can handle body balance and shift my body weight during swimming,” he notes.  

 Despite these challenges, he remains undefeated in breaststroke and individual medley (IM) events. For Naohide, swimming is more than a sport—it’s a means of self-expression and personal achievement.  

“For me, swimming is something I can fully demonstrate what I have… it is my way of expressing myself and my origin of power,” he says. 

As he prepares for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, Naohide acknowledges the fierce competition from para swimmers worldwide, especially from Nicholas Bennett from Canada. However, he views his rivals not just as competitors but as his biggest supporters, pushing him to achieve greater heights.  

 Naohide is grateful for the support from NPC Japan and Virtus, which have provided him with numerous competition opportunities across various countries.   

“I am thankful to NPC Japan and VIRTUS for all their efforts in having various competition opportunities in various countries because it helped me a lot. Their efforts have been instrumental in my development as an athlete,” he says. 

Naohide aspires to live a positive life, enjoying both swimming and everyday moments. His message to young athletes with intellectual impairments is to embrace the sport, meet new people, and gain diverse experiences, ultimately refining their professionalism and passion.  

“Through the sport, I hope they meet people and they experience various things. Then refine their professionalism,” he advises. 

As Naohide Yamaguchi prepares to compete at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, his journey serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for athletes everywhere.  

Join Virtus’ #MakingInvisibleVISIBLE campaign in making Naohide’s journey Visible. 

WHAT IS INTELLECTUAL IMPAIRMENT? 

Intellectual impairment is an umbrella term to describe a vast and neuro-diverse group of people with varying types of cognitive impairments including intellectual disability, Down syndrome and autism. Having an intellectual impairment impacts how an athlete understands the rules of the sport, interacts with other players, and adjusts to different environments. They might find it difficult to manage reaction times, remember specific race or game strategies, retain focus for long period of time, or maintaining impulse control.

Ecuadorian Superstar Poleth Mendes Eyes Another Gold at Paris 2024

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Poleth Mendes, Ecuador’s ultimate champion broke the dry spell of Ecuador at the Paralympic Games at the Tokyo 2020 by winning Ecuador’s first Paralympic Gold medal. Born in the community of Tumbatú, Bolivar canton, Carchi Province, Poleth is the second of four children in her family. Her journey from a small town to the global stage is a testament to her resilience and determination. 

“My biggest supporters are my family—my dad, mom, and siblings,“ Poleth shares, highlighting the unwavering support system that has been crucial to her success.  

“I think I was born with that gift of being an athlete and since I was a little girl I have liked it, I was involved in everything related to sports, in both school and college. I tried many different sports, but the one that caught my attention the most was athletics. I like the technique and I like it because it’s a strength-related sport”, she says, reflecting on her early passion for athletics.  

Poleth’s role model is unique—she looks up to herself, which underscores her self-reliance and inner strength. This confidence is mirrored in her training regimen, which is intense and demanding.  

“It’s a double-day workout, two and a half hours in the morning, two and a half hours in the afternoon, three days of technique and two days of weight training,” she explains. 

Poleth Mades posing with shot put and at Kobe 2024 medal podium for F20 Shot put. Photo Credit: Poleth and Kobe 2024.

Training with her sister, Anais Mandez, who also has intellectual impairment and is a shot-put thrower and won bronze at the Tokyo 2020, has added a special dimension to her athletic journey.  

“It feels great to train with someone I’ve grown up with all my life. We get along, make jokes, laugh, and correct each other, I enjoy training and travelling with her”, she says.  

“We support each other by correcting mistakes when we do technique. With more experience, I tell her what I have been through, and what I have experienced so that she can continue on that path of success,” she further added. 

Poleth has faced challenges due to her intellectual impairment, particularly with memory.  

“It has affected me in the matter of memorizing things, I easily forget them,” she admits. However, she has not let this define her.  

Poleth acknowledges that there is often a lack of understanding about intellectual impairments within society.  

“I have faced discrimination and negative attitudes because of my impairment, but it is not something that has dominated me. I think the reason behind all these negative attitudes is the lack of information and knowledge about disability, only those who go through it know perfectly well what this intellectual impairment is like and how it affects us.” 

This gap in understanding is something she hopes to bridge through her achievements and advocacy.  

Poleth received her international eligibility with Virtus in July 2017 which opened doors for her at the international para-sports competitions. Poleth made an impressive win for Ecuador in the Women’s shot put F20 at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, where she created history by winning the first Paralympic medal for Ecuador. She also set New World and Paralympic records with a distance of 14.39m.  

Poleth recently won silver in the T20 shot-put at Kobe 2024, gold at the II1 women’s shot-put and silver in discuss throw from the 2023 Virtus Global games. Reflecting on her historic achievement at Tokyo 2020, where she won the first Paralympic medal for Ecuador, Poleth is focused on Paris 2024.  

“I hope to bring out everything I’ve trained for, all my dedication and effort, to achieve a second Paralympic gold and come back with my second gold medal,” she declares. 

When asked about her biggest competitor, Poleth’s response is introspective: “Myself.” This highlights her belief in self-improvement and personal growth.  

She also mentioned the significant role Virtus Global Games played in her preparation for the Paralympic Games.  

“It helped me to know, to see how my rivals are doing, and according to that, to make an analysis and adjustment,” she explains. 

Poleth’s favourite medal is the one she won in Tokyo, a symbol of her hard work and triumph.

“My ultimate goal in life is to start my own family and have children,” she shares, revealing a personal dream beyond athletics. 

Her message to young athletes with intellectual impairments is powerful,

“If you have a dream, keep going and don’t stop for anything. There are no obstacles in life other than the ones we set for ourselves.” 

Poleth Mendes’s journey is a source of inspiration, not just for athletes with disabilities but for anyone facing challenges. As she prepares for Paris 2024, she continues to break barriers and redefine what is possible.  

“Through this campaign, we invite people to empathize and understand athletes who have disabilities, to know our dreams, and to support us as we aim for the top,” she concludes. 

Join Virtus’ #MakingInvisibleVISIBLE campaign in making Poleth’s journey Visible. 

WHAT IS INTELLECTUAL IMPAIRMENT? 

Intellectual impairment is an umbrella term to describe a vast and neuro-diverse group of people with varying types of cognitive impairments including intellectual disability, Down syndrome and autism. Having an intellectual impairment impacts how an athlete understands the rules of the sport, interacts with other players, and adjusts to different environments. They might find it difficult to manage reaction times, remember specific race or game strategies, retain focus for long period of time, or maintaining impulse control.  

Natalia Eyeing To Win Second Paralympic Gold From Paris 2024 

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Natalia Kosmina, a forty-one-year-old Ukrainian table tennis player is gearing up to win her second Paralympic Gold medal from Paris 2024. Natalia’s journey in sports began under unique circumstances. Living as an orphan, she found a new family in the Youth Sports School for People with Disabilities. Her biggest supporter is the very community that embraced her.  

For Natalia, inspiration came from a friend who introduced her to the sport. Her role model, Bernadette Szocs, a distinguished Romanian table tennis player, has had a significant impact on her.  

“She plays very competently and calmly. I look up to her,” Natalia says, highlighting the importance of having figures to emulate. 

Natalia Komina at 2023 Virtus Global Games. Photo Credit: Luc Percival

Natalia’s journey is not without its challenges. Her intellectual impairment has shaped her life in profound ways, yet she views it as a positive force.

“Intellectual impairment has actually had a good impact on my life. It led me to sports,” she explains. The support from the National Paralympic Committee of Ukraine has been instrumental in her development. 

“Playing table tennis gave me self-confidence and the opportunity to represent Ukraine on the international stage. It taught me that big goals are achieved through small steps and provided me with friends and good colleagues.” Natalia further added. 

Natalia’s training regimen is rigorous. She trains twice a day, combining tennis-specific exercises with general physical workouts and focused serve practices. 

“The most difficult thing for me was to adjust psychologically,” she admits.  

Natalia received her international eligibility with Virtus in May 2016 which opened doors for her at the international elite para-sports competitions. The Rio 2016 gold medallist couldn’t make it to the semifinals at Tokyo 2020. However, with resilience and determination, Kosmina brushed off the dust and currently ranks 7th in the ITTF world ranking and is climbing her way up to the top slowly. 

Natalia’s list of achievements is impressive including gold medals at the 2017 European Championships, bronze at the 2023 ITTF European Para Championships (both in Singles class 11 and Mixed doubles class 22), bronze at the 2019 European Championships, silver at the 2015 European Championships, and bronze at the 2014 World Championships, all in Singles class 11.  

 When asked about her favourite medal, she finds it hard to choose.  

“Every medal holds a special place because each represents overcoming different challenges.” 

Looking ahead, Natalia is gearing up for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. “I have a few competitors, representatives of Turkey, France, and Japan,” she notes, ready to face her rivals with determination. 

Natalia’s ultimate goal in life is simple yet profound. “To be healthy, work, and start a family,” she states. Her message to young athletes with intellectual impairments is filled with encouragement.

“I wish young people to develop intellectually and psychologically and to be involved in various sports. Don’t give up on anything.” 

Natalia Kosmina’s story is one of resilience, determination, and the transformative power of sports. From an orphan in Mykolaiv to a champion on the world stage, she embodies the spirit of perseverance and the belief that with hard work and support, anything is possible. As she continues to train and compete, Natalia remains an inspiration to many, proving that the human spirit can triumph over any obstacle. 

Join Virtus’ #MakingInvisibleVISIBLE campaign in making Natalia’s journey Visible. 

WHAT IS INTELLECTUAL IMPAIRMENT? 

 Intellectual impairment is an umbrella term to describe a vast and neuro-diverse group of people with varying types of cognitive impairments including intellectual disability, Down syndrome and autism. Having an intellectual impairment impacts how an athlete understands the rules of the sport, interacts with other players, and adjusts to different environments. They might find it difficult to manage reaction times, remember specific race or game strategies, retain focus for long period of time, or maintaining impulse control. 

Virtus congratulate France on winning 2030 WPG bid/call for inclusion

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Virtus is encouraged by the announcement that the French Alps will host the XXVI Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in 2030. It represents a significant opportunity to advocate for the re-inclusion of athletes with an intellectual impairment in the Winter Paralympics. 

The French Alps’ selection as the host adds momentum to Virtus’ efforts to ensure athletes have their rightful place on the podium, reinforcing the commitment to diversity and inclusion in sport.

In the IOC media announcement, Alpes Françaises 2030 state the event ‘aims to unite the north and south French Alps and make them a hub for winter sport, to bring maximum social and economic benefits to their communities.’

Additionally, the announcement states “It will be the first edition of the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games to fully integrate the principles of Olympic Agenda 2020 and 2020+5, as well as new requirements on sustainability set by the IOC’s Olympic Host Contract” (read the IOC announcement in full here).

Calling for re-inclusion 

Virtus is calling on the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) and the International Ski and Snowboarding Federation (FIS) to take the necessary next steps to achieve re-inclusion for athletes with an intellectual impairment in time for the Games in 2030.

Athletes with an intellectual impairment previously had full medal status at the 1998 Nagano Winter Paralympic Games in Cross Country Skiing.  Whilst a limited number of sports and events are on the summer Paralympic Games program, winter athletes are still waiting.

The Virtus campaign for the re-inclusion of athletes with intellectual impairments aligns with the Olympic Agenda 2020+5 by promoting inclusivity, equality, and diversity in sports. The agenda emphasises the importance of engaging with the wider community and ensuring all athletes have the opportunity to participate on the global stage, and this must include athletes with an intellectual impairment.

Virtus’s efforts support these principles – advocating for the recognition and inclusion of athletes with intellectual impairments in the Winter Paralympics, contributing to the broader goals of the Olympic Movement.

Background 

The background to this began around 14 years ago when IPC, the classification research Centre in Leuven, and Virtus (then known as INAS) began work to develop a sports classification system for skiers with an intellectual impairment. Nordic skiing had long been identified (by IPC and others) as the sport that could be added to the Winter Paralympic Games, following re-inclusion in the Summer Games in 2012. 

This collaborative approach was very successful and, in 2017, the IPC membership (at the General Assembly) voted to support a motion that mandated the IPC to increase the representation of athletes with an intellectual impairment in the Paralympic Games. 

This appeared to be on track for the Winter Paralympic Games 2022 in Beijing, however due to the transfer of para-ski governance to FIS in 2022, re-inclusion was delayed, and again declined for re-inclusion in Milano Cortina 2026, with a further position that there would be no capacity to include athletes with an intellectual impairment for 2030.

This act of exclusion left Virtus in a position where, because the International Federation of the sport is unwilling to support, Virtus had to take stronger stance, bidding for the re-inclusion of athletes with an intellectual impairment. For the sake of the athletes and the development of inclusive sport, we cannot wait another 10 years for just the possibility of inclusion in WPG 2034.

Virtus and its membership are fighting for the right to see the re-inclusion of athletes with an intellectual impairment in the Winter Paralympics.  We call on global support for inclusion and equity.

Alexander Hillhouse’s Journey From His Backyard Pool To Paris 2024 

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As the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games draw near, Denmark eagerly anticipates the debut of one of its brightest stars, Paralympic swimmer Alexander Hillhouse.

From the calming waters of his backyard pool to the world stage, Alexander’s journey is as inspiring as it is remarkable.

“My biggest supporter is my mom, dad, coaches, and teammates. They mean the world to me, and I’m grateful to have them by my side wherever I go,” Alexander shares, reflecting on the unwavering encouragement that has fuelled his athletic journey.

Unlike many other athletes who fell in love with their sport in school or through therapy, Alexander fell in love with the sport in his backyard pool and how killer whales used to swim.

“I had a back pool in the backyard. When I was little and I just fell in love with it (swimming). I thought that it would be pretty cool, just probably to swim in it and I found it interesting and like killer whales and how they swim. And I think I just wanted to be like them because I just love the pool and I like the whales and how they swim and I think it got me motivated to train all the time.”

Inspired by swimming legend Michael Phelps, Alexander’s passion for the sport ignited after witnessing Phelps’ historic achievements at the Beijing Olympics.  

“Phelps is my role model, his success motivated me to pursue swimming with all my heart,“ Alexander enthuses. 

Navigating the challenges of early morning training sessions and the invisible nature of his intellectual impairment, Alexander remains stubborn in his hunt of excellence.

“It’s just something that I have and I’m alright with that or that I figure out that I could be this person, you know. In other words, like, sure, we’ll give it a shot and see how it goes. And I gotta say, having intellectual impairment has changed my life actually. Going around the world, representing my country, winning competitions.”

“Everyone thinks that I just look like a normal person, but when they see me then they know that I’m a little bit autistic. You can see the impairment in people who have physical or visual impairment, but everyone just doesn’t think that about me. It’s good in a way. Everyone just thinks that I’m just a normal kid and I’m just swimming really fast.  

“Waking up early is tough, but it’s part of the journey, but I’m committed to pushing my limits and achieving my goals.” he admits.  

With a rigorous training regimen comprising 10 sessions per week, Alexander’s dedication is unwavering. 

“I train every morning from Monday to Friday, with additional sessions on Saturdays,” he explains. “It’s demanding, but I love every moment in the pool.“ 

Alexander received his Virtus eligibility in early 2020 which opened his international para-swimming career. Alexander won two gold, three silver and two bronze at the 2023 Virtus Global Games and aspires to repeat his results at the next Global Games too. 

Gabriel Bandeira (BRA), Alexander Hillhouse (DEN) and Cho Wonsang (KOR) at the victory ceremony for II1 50m Butterfly at GG2023 (L) and Alexander flaunting all his Global Games medal (R). Photo Credit: T.Nguyen and Alexander Hillhouse.

“Vichy 2023 was my first Virtus Global Games, I did some great racing over there. It was pretty amazing. All the friendships I made there were like pretty real. My hard work paid off as I came back with some amazing results. I hope I can do the same at the upcoming Global Games in Cairo 2027.” 

Alexander won two gold, three silver and two bronze along with four Danish records at the 2023 Virtus Global games last year.

Reflecting on his journey, Alexander also highlighted his silver medal win at the 2023 World Para Swimming Championships in Manchester as a defining moment. 

 “Qualifying for Paris 2024 was a dream come true, it’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone who supported me.”  

Looking ahead, Alexander’s sights are set on breaking the world record in the 100m butterfly, a feat that epitomizes his pursuit of excellence.  

“I’m determined to push the boundaries of what’s possible, it’s a challenge I’m ready to embrace,” he asserts. 

As Alexander prepares to represent Denmark at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, his focus extends beyond medals to embracing the experience of competing on the global stage. 

“I’ve been wanting a medal since like Michael Phelps won a gold medal and just any medal and I am also looking forward to the whole Paralympic games experience too. I think the experience could be amazing because it’s Paris 2024, it only happens once in four years, It’s a privilege to compete alongside friends from around the world,“ Alexander shares. 

To aspiring athletes with intellectual impairments, Alexander’s message is one of resilience and determination. 

“Never give up, with dedication and perseverance, anything is possible ”  

As Denmark rallies behind Alexander Hillhouse, the nation celebrates his journey from backyard pools to international podiums. With each stroke, Alexander embodies the spirit of determination and the power of dreams, proving that with unwavering commitment, the sky’s the limit. 

Join Virtus’ #MakingInvisibleVISIBLE campaign in making Alexander’s journey Visible.

What is Intellectual Impairment? 

Intellectual impairment is an umbrella term to describe a vast and neuro-diverse group of people with varying types of cognitive impairments including intellectual disability, Down syndrome and autism. Having an intellectual impairment impacts how an athlete understands the rules of the sport, interacts with other players, and adjusts to different environments. They might find it difficult to manage reaction times, remember specific race or game strategies, retain focus for long period of time, or maintaining impulse control.