A Fishers High School graduate is making waves in the world of adaptive athletics as part of the University of Cincinnati’s groundbreaking new program. Seth Miller, a freshman at UC, has become an integral part of the university’s first-ever adaptive athletics initiative, which is designed to provide opportunities for students with lower limb disabilities to compete in sports.
Overcoming Obstacles to Stay in the Game
Miller, an avid hockey player, had a passion for the sport from a young age. “I grew up playing hockey year-round,” he shared. “Throughout the season, throughout the off-season. Constantly at the rink.” However, his journey took a drastic turn during his junior year of high school when a rock climbing accident left him in a wheelchair.
Despite the setback, Miller wasn’t ready to give up on his love for sports. “It was a little bit tough, but we managed through,” he said. Thanks to the Indy Steel, an adaptive sled hockey team, Miller continued to stay active and engaged in athletics. “It’s just as competitive as anything else,” he explained, describing the transition to sled hockey as a unique and exciting challenge.
The University of Cincinnati’s Adaptive Athletics Program
Miller’s determination did not go unnoticed. He was soon contacted by Coach Jacob Counts from the University of Cincinnati Adaptive Athletics program, which offers athletes with lower limb disabilities the chance to compete in sports like wheelchair tennis and track and field.
UC’s adaptive athletics program is a pioneering initiative in the Cincinnati area and one of the first in Ohio. “It’s all about giving students opportunities,” Counts said. The program aims to keep talented athletes closer to home, offering a pathway to collegiate athletics for those who may have previously faced barriers due to their disabilities.
Miller’s role in the program is vital, not only as an athlete but also as a symbol of the opportunities this program is opening up. “Seth is exactly the kind of athlete you want,” Coach Counts remarked. “You want people that are going to approach you with a good attitude, make the most of it, and put their hard hat on and come to work every day.”
A Future of Expansion and Growth
As the program enters its inaugural season, it has already garnered attention for its success and impact. UC’s adaptive sports program offers a unique avenue for athletes with disabilities to showcase their talents at the collegiate level. The hope is that this initiative will grow, attracting more athletes and expanding the range of adaptive sports offered in the future.
“We’re off to a good start, but hoping to grow and expand that program,” Counts said. “Adaptive sports is really a growing space, so for UC to be at the forefront of that and helping to lead the charge and getting disabled athletes opportunities to be collegiate student-athletes as well, I think that’s huge for the university and for the community.”
Miller’s story, and his contribution to the program’s launch, highlights the power of resilience and the importance of providing all students with equal opportunities to succeed in athletics, regardless of physical challenges.
