Justin Hauser of Ottawa Lake, Michigan, never imagined that a split‑second plunge into a pool would redirect the course of his life. A sudden swimming accident resulted in a C5‑6 incomplete spinal cord injury, leaving him dependent on a wheelchair and forcing a reevaluation of his athletic ambitions.
The injury introduced him to power soccer, a fast‑moving adaptive sport that blends strategy, teamwork and the thrill of competition. He soon joined the Motor City Eagles, a competitive travel team based in Northville, Michigan, where the roster is co‑ed but currently male‑dominant, featuring players ranging from 16 to 38 years old.
A recent grant from the Kelly Brush Foundation will fund a custom‑built power soccer chair priced at $12,500, slated to arrive in roughly twelve weeks. The new chair replaces an aging model and is expected to enhance Hauser’s performance on the court.
The foundation, dedicated to providing adaptive sports equipment for individuals with spinal cord injuries, will see Hauser’s former chair repurposed for a teammate, extending its utility within the squad and reinforcing the team’s collaborative spirit.
A Community in Motion
The United States Power Soccer Association now oversees roughly 70 co‑ed teams nationwide and boasts 437 registered players this season. While power soccer and bocce remain the only organized competitions for power‑chair users, the association is actively courting new participants, emphasizing growth and inclusion across the country.
Hauser’s story reflects a broader narrative of resilience and community support. With the backing of the Kelly Brush Foundation and the expanding network of power soccer teams, he looks forward to not only reclaiming his place on the field but also inspiring others to pursue adaptive sports.