As the world eagerly anticipates the 2024 Paris Olympics, Wisconsin stands proud with an impressive roster of 18 athletes representing the state across various sports. These Olympians and Paralympians, hailing from different corners of Wisconsin, embody dedication, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. From the sprinting prowess of Kenny Bednarek to the tactical skills of wheelchair basketball star Jake Williams, each athlete has a unique story of determination and triumph. This article delves into the journeys of these remarkable individuals, highlighting their achievements and the unwavering support from their communities that have propelled them to the grand stage of the Olympics.
Kenny Bednarek
Kenny Bednarek, hailing from Rice Lake, Wisconsin, has established himself as one of the premier sprinters on the global stage. Known for his remarkable speed and endurance, Bednarek secured a silver medal in the men’s 200 meters at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics with a time of 19.68 seconds, just 0.06 seconds behind gold medalist Andre De Grasse of Canada.
Bednarek’s journey to Olympic success is a testament to his resilience and dedication. Initially, he had dreams of pursuing football but switched his focus to track after realizing his potential in sprinting. He rose through the ranks, competing in junior college before turning professional and signing with Nike in 2019.
In preparation for the 2024 Paris Olympics, Bednarek has been training intensively, aiming to surpass his previous achievements. He will be competing in both the 100m and 200m events, having set personal bests of 9.87 seconds in the 100m and 19.59 seconds in the 200m during the U.S. Olympic Trials. With a disciplined approach to training and a focus on maintaining his peak physical condition, Bednarek is poised to make a significant impact in Paris.
Beyond his athletic prowess, Bednarek is known for his distinctive style, often wearing a “Rambo”-like headband during races, which has earned him the nickname “Kung Fu Kenny.” His journey from a small town in Wisconsin to the world stage is an inspiration to many, demonstrating the power of perseverance and hard work.
John Boie
John Boie, a native of Milton, Wisconsin, is a standout athlete on the U.S. Paralympic wheelchair basketball team. He first made headlines with his performance at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics, where he helped lead Team USA to a gold medal. Boie, who graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater with a degree in 2014 and later earned his MBA in 2019, is known for his exceptional skills on the court and his leadership off it.
Boie’s journey to becoming a Paralympian is marked by his determination and resilience. He started playing wheelchair basketball at a young age and continued to excel through his college years at UW-Whitewater, a renowned hub for wheelchair basketball talent. His hard work and dedication paid off when he was selected to represent the U.S. at the Paralympics, where he has become a key player for the team.
In May 2022, Boie was honored at the White House by President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, recognizing his achievements and contributions to the sport. This accolade was a testament to his impact both as an athlete and as a role model for others with disabilities.
As Boie heads to the 2024 Paris Paralympics, he is focused on defending the gold medal with his teammates. His preparation has been intense, balancing rigorous training sessions with his role as an academic adviser at UW-Whitewater. Boie embodies the spirit of perseverance and excellence, and he continues to inspire many with his journey and achievements.
Margherita Guzzi Vincenti
Margherita Guzzi Vincenti, originally from Milan, Italy, now calls Hartland, Wisconsin, home. She will represent Team USA in the 2024 Paris Olympics, competing in both the individual and team epee events in fencing. Guzzi Vincenti began fencing at the age of seven, inspired by her great-great-uncle, Franco Riccardi, who won three Olympic gold medals between 1928 and 1936.
After moving to the United States, she earned a full scholarship to fence at The Pennsylvania State University, where she won the NCAA national championship as a freshman. Guzzi Vincenti became an American citizen in 2019, through the extraordinary ability category, just missing out on the 2020 Tokyo Olympics as an alternate.
Training under Coach Abbas Fadel at the Ataba Fencing Club in Hartland, Guzzi Vincenti has honed her skills to become one of the top epee fencers in the world. She describes herself as a versatile fencer, capable of both strong offense and defense, and enjoys surprising her opponents with quick, unexpected moves.
As she heads to Paris, Guzzi Vincenti is motivated by the support of her community and the rigorous training regimen she follows, which includes strength training, technique refinement, and mindfulness exercises. Her journey is a testament to her dedication and the collaborative spirit of her fencing club.
Tyrese Haliburton
Tyrese Haliburton, an Oshkosh native, is representing Team USA in basketball at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Known for his exceptional playmaking abilities, Haliburton currently plays as a point guard for the Indiana Pacers in the NBA. He was selected 12th overall in the 2020 NBA Draft by the Sacramento Kings and has since become a two-time NBA All-Star.
Haliburton’s journey to the Olympics is marked by his rapid rise in professional basketball. After a standout college career at Iowa State University, he transitioned seamlessly to the NBA, where he has become known for his leadership and skill on the court. In the 2023-2024 NBA season, he averaged 20.1 points and led the league with 10.9 assists per game.
As a member of Team USA, Haliburton joins a roster filled with NBA stars, including Jrue Holiday. His role in the team is crucial, as his playmaking and defensive skills are expected to help the U.S. secure another Olympic gold medal.
Off the court, Haliburton’s work ethic and dedication to the game are evident in his continuous improvement and impact on the teams he has played for. His participation in the Olympics is not just a personal achievement but also a moment of pride for his hometown of Oshkosh and the broader Wisconsin community.
Nate Hinze
Nate Hinze, from Cedar Grove, Wisconsin, is a key player on the U.S. Paralympic wheelchair basketball team. He is a seasoned athlete, having competed in three previous Paralympics: London 2012, Rio 2016, and Tokyo 2020, where he won two gold medals and a bronze.
Hinze began his journey in wheelchair basketball at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, a renowned institution for nurturing top-tier wheelchair basketball talent. His outstanding performance at the university level quickly propelled him onto the national stage. In addition to his Paralympic successes, Hinze has been instrumental in Team USA’s victories at the Parapan American Games and World Championships.
As an assistant principal at Port Washington High School, Hinze balances his professional career with his rigorous training schedule. His dedication to the sport and his community is evident in his commitment to both his students and his teammates. In the 2024 Paris Paralympics, Hinze and his team aim for a historic “three-peat” by winning their third consecutive gold medal.
Hinze’s journey is marked by resilience and excellence, making him a prominent figure in the world of Paralympic sports and an inspiration to many in Wisconsin and beyond.
Payton Jacobson
Payton Jacobson, a native of Elkhorn, Wisconsin, is making his Olympic debut at the 2024 Paris Games as a Greco-Roman wrestler in the 87 kg weight class. Jacobson secured his spot on Team USA with a thrilling best-of-three victory at the U.S. Olympic Trials held at Penn State University. Despite being the No. 7 seed in his bracket, he overcame formidable opponents to clinch his place in the Olympics.
Jacobson’s journey to Paris has been marked by rigorous training and international competition. After his victory at the trials, he spent time training in Porec, Croatia, and competed in a world-ranking event in Budapest, Hungary. He also trained at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs and had sessions with athletes from various countries, further honing his skills.
Currently a junior at Northern Michigan University, Jacobson is part of their esteemed Greco-Roman wrestling program. His determination and resilience have not only made him a standout athlete but also a source of inspiration for his community in Elkhorn. As he heads to Paris, Jacobson is focused on bringing home a medal for Team USA, with his events scheduled for the final days of the Games on August 7 and 8.
Jacobson’s story is one of perseverance and dedication, reflecting the hard work and support from his family, coaches, and community. His Olympic journey serves as a testament to his commitment to the sport and his aspiration to excel at the highest level.
Talen Jourdan
Talen Jourdan, from Deerfield, Wisconsin, is set to compete in wheelchair basketball at the 2024 Paris Paralympics. A recent graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, Jourdan has been an integral part of their renowned wheelchair basketball program. His journey into the sport began at age 13 after a fall from a tree stand left him paralyzed from the waist down. Introduced to wheelchair basketball shortly after his injury, Jourdan has dedicated himself to excelling in the sport ever since.
Jourdan’s accomplishments include helping lead UW-Whitewater to multiple national titles. His perseverance and skill on the court earned him a spot on Team USA, where he will compete alongside some of the best wheelchair basketball players in the world. The 2024 Paralympics will mark his debut at the Games, and he is eager to showcase his talents on the international stage.
Training under the guidance of head coach Jake Williams, himself a two-time Paralympic gold medalist, Jourdan has honed his abilities to compete at the highest level. His story is one of resilience and determination, inspiring many within the Wisconsin community and beyond.
Maria Laborde
Maria Laborde, originally from Cuba and now residing in Kenosha, Wisconsin, is set to compete in her first Olympic Games for Team USA in judo at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Laborde, who is 33 years old and competes in the 48 kg (106 lbs) weight class, is currently ranked No. 11 in the world. Her journey in judo began at age 11 when her grandmother encouraged her to channel her energy into the sport.
Laborde quickly rose through the ranks in Cuba, securing a bronze medal at the 2014 World Championships. After moving to the United States and becoming a citizen in 2022, she resumed her judo career, this time representing Team USA. In 2023, she made history by becoming the first American in seven years to medal at the World Judo Masters, winning a silver medal.
Laborde’s training and dedication have paid off, and she is now a prominent figure in the judo community. Her story is one of resilience and perseverance, overcoming cultural adjustments and the challenges of starting over in a new country. Laborde will compete in the women’s 48 kg category on July 27, aiming to bring home a medal for Team USA.
Becca Murray
Becca Murray, a native of Germantown, Wisconsin, is a seasoned athlete in wheelchair basketball, set to compete in her fourth Paralympic Games at the 2024 Paris Paralympics. Murray has been a pivotal player for Team USA, contributing to their gold medal victories at the 2008 Beijing and 2016 Rio Paralympics. She also competed in the 2012 London Paralympics, where the team finished fourth.
Murray’s impressive career includes three gold medals at the Parapan American Games (2007, 2011, and 2023) and two medals at the World Championships (gold in 2010 and bronze in 2022). She started playing wheelchair basketball at a young age and joined the Milwaukee Wizards club team at 12. Her talent and dedication led her to the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, a hub for wheelchair basketball excellence.
In addition to her athletic achievements, Murray has served as an inspiration for many aspiring athletes. Her journey reflects resilience and a relentless pursuit of excellence, making her a standout figure in the Paralympic community. As she heads to Paris, Murray aims to add another medal to her illustrious career and continue her legacy as one of the top wheelchair basketball players in the world.
Lauren O’Connor
Lauren O’Connor, a native of Belleville, Wisconsin, is competing in her first Olympic Games at the 2024 Paris Olympics as a member of Team USA’s women’s rowing team. O’Connor, who started her rowing career as a walk-on at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, has quickly risen to prominence in the sport. She is part of the women’s quadruple sculls team, which includes fellow Badgers Maddie Wanamaker, Grace Joyce, and Sophia Vitas.
O’Connor’s journey to the Olympics is a testament to her dedication and hard work. After walking on to the rowing team at UW-Madison, she developed her skills and became a key member of the team. Her persistence paid off when her crew secured a spot at the Paris Olympics by winning the women’s quadruple sculls at the 2024 World Rowing Final Olympic & Paralympic Qualification Regatta.
The Wisconsin community, particularly her hometown of Belleville, has rallied behind O’Connor, showing immense support as she competes on the world stage. Her participation in the Olympics is a significant milestone, not only for her but also for the University of Wisconsin’s storied rowing program, which has a strong tradition of producing Olympic-level talent.
As O’Connor competes in Paris, she carries with her the hopes and pride of her local community and her alma mater, aiming to achieve Olympic glory with her team.
Emily Oberst
Emily Oberst, a Milwaukee native, is making her Paralympic debut in wheelchair basketball at the 2024 Paris Paralympics. Diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma at age 12, Oberst underwent extensive surgeries and chemotherapy, which led her to transition from running and able-bodied sports to wheelchair basketball. Despite these challenges, she has become a prominent player on the national stage.
Oberst’s basketball career began in high school with the varsity Junior Bucks team. She was recruited by the University of Alabama and later transferred to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where she completed her college career. Internationally, Oberst made her debut at the 2018 Wheelchair Basketball World Championship and has since accumulated several accolades, including a gold medal at the 2019 Women’s U25 World Championship and a bronze medal at the 2022 Wheelchair Basketball World Championships.
In 2023, Oberst played a pivotal role in helping Team USA win gold at the Parapan American Games, which secured their spot in the 2024 Paralympics. Her journey is a powerful testament to resilience and determination, and she aims to make a significant impact in Paris.
Stephanie Roble
Stephanie Roble, hailing from East Troy, Wisconsin, is making her second Olympic appearance at the 2024 Paris Olympics in sailing. Growing up on Lake Beulah, Roble started sailing at the age of five and quickly developed a passion for the sport. Her early experiences on scows and dinghies laid the foundation for a successful junior sailing career. Roble attended Old Dominion University, where she earned two All-American honors and served as team captain while pursuing a degree in Finance.
After college, Roble transitioned to professional sailing, competing in various classes, including the Melges 20, J70, and Etchells. Her impressive resume includes one World Championship, five National Championships, and numerous podium finishes at major events. Roble was named US Sailing’s Rolex Yachtswoman of the Year in 2014, highlighting her exceptional skills and achievements in the sport.
In Paris, Roble is competing in the 49erFX class alongside her teammate Maggie Shea. The duo has been campaigning together since 2016, earning medals at the Pan American Games, French Olympic Week, and the 49erFX World Championship. Their strong teamwork and Roble’s role as the skipper, responsible for steering the boat and making strategic decisions, have positioned them as serious contenders for an Olympic medal.
Roble’s journey is supported by her family and the close-knit sailing community at Lake Beulah Yacht Club. Her dedication, combined with the backing of her community and family, has propelled her to the top of her sport, and she aims to achieve Olympic glory in Paris.
Nick Rusher
Nick Rusher, from West Bend, Wisconsin, is set to make his Olympic debut at the 2024 Paris Olympics as a member of Team USA’s men’s eight rowing team. Rusher comes from a family with a rich rowing legacy; both of his parents competed in the 1988 and 1992 Olympics, and his sister Alie rowed for the U.S. in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
Rusher attended high school in New Hampshire before enrolling at Yale University, where he further honed his rowing skills. During his time at Yale, he played a significant role in the success of their rowing program. His impressive performance earned him a spot on the U.S. national team, where he competed in the men’s eight at the 2022 World Championships, finishing in fourth place.
Nick’s journey to the Olympics has been driven by both his family’s legacy and his personal dedication to the sport. His parents’ influence and support have been pivotal, encouraging him to explore rowing and ultimately excel in it. Now, as he competes in Paris, Nick aims to continue his family’s tradition of Olympic excellence and bring home a medal for Team USA.
Emily Sisson
Emily Sisson, originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is set to compete in the marathon at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Sisson, who previously competed in the 10,000 meters at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, has shifted her focus to longer distances, setting a North American marathon record at the 2022 Chicago Marathon with a time of 2:18:29.
Sisson’s journey to Paris has been marked by both triumph and challenge. After a disappointing finish at the 2020 U.S. Olympic marathon trials in Atlanta, where she was forced to drop out, Sisson bounced back with remarkable resilience. She qualified for the 2024 Olympics by finishing second at the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials with a time of 2:22:42.
Her training regimen is rigorous and carefully structured, reflecting her deep understanding of what it takes to succeed at the highest level. Sisson’s experiences in various marathons have taught her valuable lessons about handling pressure and maintaining a positive mindset, which she brings into her preparations for the Olympics.
As she heads to Paris, Sisson is driven by a blend of personal ambition and the support of her family and training team. Her story is one of perseverance and dedication, and she aims to make a significant impact in her second Olympic appearance.
Mary Theisen-Lappen
Mary Theisen-Lappen, a weightlifter from Eau Claire, Wisconsin, is set to make her Olympic debut at the 2024 Paris Olympics in the women’s +81 kg super-heavyweight division. Theisen-Lappen’s journey to the Olympics is remarkable, considering she only began competitive Olympic lifting in 2019. Her rapid rise in the sport has been fueled by her dedication and exceptional talent.
Before transitioning to weightlifting, Theisen-Lappen was a standout track and field athlete. She excelled in throwing events, competing in shot put, discus, hammer, and weight throw during her time at Winona State University and Indiana State University, where she qualified for seven NCAA Championships.
In her weightlifting career, Theisen-Lappen has already made significant achievements. She won silver at the 2023 IWF World Championships and secured two gold medals at the Pan American Championships in 2021 and 2023. Her performance at these events earned her a spot on Team USA for the Paris Olympics.
Training under coach Wil Fleming, Theisen-Lappen has focused on building confidence and maintaining a consistent routine leading up to the Olympics. Her commitment and hard work have positioned her as a strong contender in her weight class, continuing the legacy of American excellence in women’s super-heavyweight weightlifting.
Sophia Vitas
Sophia Vitas, a native of Franklin, Wisconsin, is representing Team USA in the women’s double sculls at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Vitas began her athletic journey as a basketball player at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee before transitioning to rowing when she transferred to the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Since taking up rowing, Vitas has quickly established herself as a top competitor. She has competed on five national teams, including senior and Olympic levels. In 2023, Vitas won a bronze medal at the World Rowing Championships in Belgrade and secured a victory at the 2024 World Rowing Cup II in Lucerne.
Her dedication to the sport and her rigorous training have positioned her as a strong contender in Paris. Vitas trains at the Princeton Training Center and is known for her resilience and commitment to excellence. Her journey from a novice rower to an Olympian is a testament to her hard work and determination.
Vitas looks forward to competing at the highest level and representing her hometown and country with pride. Her story is an inspiration to many, showcasing the possibilities that come with perseverance and dedication.
Madeleine Wanamaker
Madeleine Wanamaker, hailing from Neenah, Wisconsin, is gearing up for her second Olympic appearance at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Wanamaker, who graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2017, initially began rowing as a walk-on athlete during her freshman year. Her journey from novice rower to Olympian showcases her dedication and passion for the sport.
At the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Wanamaker competed in the women’s four, finishing in seventh place. She has continued to build on her experience and success, recently finishing third in the women’s eight at the 2024 World Rowing Cup II. Her ability to overcome challenges, including significant injuries such as thoracic outlet syndrome, highlights her resilience and determination.
Training with the USRowing Training Center in Princeton, Wanamaker has consistently demonstrated her strength and skill. She was part of the gold medal-winning team at the 2018 World Championships in the women’s four and earned a bronze medal at the 2022 World Championships in the women’s eight. Her dedication to her sport and her ability to bounce back from injuries make her a strong contender for a medal in Paris.
Wanamaker’s story is an inspiration to many, showing that with hard work and perseverance, it is possible to reach the highest levels of athletic achievement.
Jake Williams
Jake Williams, a native of Greater Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is a prominent player on the U.S. Paralympic men’s wheelchair basketball team, preparing for his third Paralympics at the 2024 Paris Games. Williams, who graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, has already made significant contributions to the team, including winning gold medals at the 2016 Rio and 2020 Tokyo Paralympics.
Williams’ journey to becoming a top wheelchair basketball player began after a life-changing accident at the age of 16 when he was hit by a car while riding his bike, resulting in a severed spinal cord. Introduced to wheelchair basketball during his recovery, he quickly excelled in the sport, joining the national team in 2015 and winning multiple medals in international competitions.
At Whitewater, a hub for wheelchair basketball talent, Williams developed his skills and confidence, benefiting from the strong community of current and former Paralympians who regularly scrimmage with the college players. This environment helped propel him to become one of the leaders of Team USA.
As Team USA aims for a third consecutive gold medal in Paris, Williams’ experience, determination, and quick reflexes will be crucial. His leadership and composure under pressure make him a key player on the court, inspiring many with his story of resilience and achievement.
Conclusion
The 18 Olympians and Paralympians from Wisconsin heading to the 2024 Paris Olympics are more than just athletes; they are beacons of inspiration, showcasing what can be achieved through hard work, perseverance, and community support. Each has overcome personal and professional challenges to reach the pinnacle of their sports, embodying the Olympic spirit in every sense. As they compete on the global stage, they carry with them the hopes and pride of their hometowns and the entire state of Wisconsin.
