US Team Competitor Profile – Michael Kacer – New Beginning
Q&A with Michael Kacer – New Beginning
U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Michael Kacer lost his left arm in 2008 while deployed in Afghanistan. Michael competed in the 2014 Invictus Games in London winning a bronze medal in 100m, silver medal in 200m, and silver medal in indoor rowing events.
We sat down with US Team member Michael Kacer who will be participating in the track, swimming and rowing events at the 2016 Invictus Games in Orlando. See what he had to say about his journey towards recovery.
Prior to participating in adaptive sports, were you active in sports?
MK: In high school I played football for the Carbondale Area Chargers until I was benched my senior year. I became a cheerleader my senior year instead. I also ran track from 6th grade until end of high school.
What are your fondest adaptive sports memory and/or your proudest athletic achievement?
MK: My proudest achievement so far, has been representing the US Military and my family at [2014] Invictus Games. My fondest memory is my mom seeing me compete and finally understanding it isn’t about winning, but competing, entertaining and leaving everything out there for all to be motivated and inspired by.
Photo of Michael Kacer and his family at the 2014 Invictus Games in London
What do you enjoy most about training for the Invictus Games?
MK: I enjoy training in multiple sports, so I can showcase my athletic ability across the board.
What are you hoping to achieve at the 2016 Invictus Games in Orlando?
MK: Being able to leave everything out there whether track, field, rowing, or pool. [At 2014 Invictus Games] I had to drop events to compete in others and that didn’t work out. This year I am not dropping anything and will see how it all plays out.
What are your personal goals for the 2016 Invictus Games?
MK: 100% exhaustion on every event and to bring home more pride then last Games.
What motivates you to compete in the Invictus Games?
MK: Representing not only the National Guard community and USA, but representing my family and inspiring others as I try to reach the Paralympics.
Watch Michael go for Gold in Swimming, Track & Field and Indoor Rowing on Monday May 9 -11.
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