Jesse is a proud USMC veteran and St. Bonaventure graduate whose life took a new direction after a spinal cord injury. Discovering adaptive sports at the 2014 National Veterans Wheelchair Games sparked a passion for wheelchair basketball that transformed his journey. As the player/coach of the Coastal Chairmen, which he helped establish in 2019, Jesse has dedicated himself to growing the sport and fostering a sense of community. Adaptive sports have provided him with purpose, lifelong friendships, and the joy of introducing others to their life-changing impact.

In October 1993, a workplace accident left Bill with permanent vision loss in his right eye and glaucoma. Just three months later, he survived a severe car accident that resulted in the amputation of his right leg above the knee, extensive facial trauma requiring metal plates, and multiple organ repairs. Over the years, Bill has undergone numerous surgeries, including back procedures, shoulder repairs, and the removal of part of his collarbone, demonstrating remarkable resilience.

For Bill, wheelchair basketball is more than a sport—it’s a blessing and an opportunity. Playing with the Coastal Chairmen has kept his mind, body, and spirit healthy while fostering a sense of camaraderie and belonging. It’s helped him connect with others, showing that no one is alone in their journey with disability. Adaptive sports have given Bill a renewed purpose and the chance to thrive as part of an inspiring community.

In 2010, while serving with the US Army's 82nd Airborne Division in Afghanistan, Andy was injured in Khost Province when an 88mm recoilless rifle round hit during an enemy attack. He suffered a traumatic amputation of his right leg above the knee, lost his left big toe, his right middle finger, and some vision in his right eye. Additionally, he endured a traumatic brain injury from the blast.

For Andy, wheelchair basketball is a vital outlet for both physical fitness and mental well-being. As a member of the Coastal Chairmen, it provides him the weekly exercise he needs to keep up with his four kids, as well as a sense of camaraderie and community among his fellow players. The program has given him a renewed sense of purpose and the chance to connect with others, offering a much-needed fellowship and support system.

Jose's journey began on September 18, 2003, when he sustained a spinal injury at work after falling from a height of about 16 feet, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down. Now 46 years old, Jose continues to play wheelchair basketball, a sport that serves multiple important purposes in his life. It keeps him in shape, connects him with a wonderful community of like-minded individuals, and has fostered a strong sense of camaraderie.

What started as a curiosity—attending a tournament—quickly turned into a passion. Jose began practicing in a parking lot to improve his skills, ultimately leading him to join a team. Today, he enjoys the immense happiness and confidence that wheelchair basketball brings, using it as a stress reliever and a way to boost his self-esteem despite his disability.

As a proud member of the Coastal Chairmen, Jose values the friendships he’s made and the positive impact the sport has had on his life over the years.

Thirteen years ago, EP began his wheelchair basketball journey, quickly finding success with a championship title. His passion for the game runs deep, driven by the spirit of competition. While he's had the privilege of playing on various teams, it's the camaraderie and bond with his current team, the Coastal Chairmen, that he cherishes most. The pursuit of another championship title remains his driving force, and he’s grateful for the journey and the opportunities it continues to provide.

David was born with Spina Bifida, which left him paraplegic. Limited in participating in traditional sports, his journey took a turn when he joined the Coastal Chairmen adaptive sports program. From his first practice to competing at the NWBA Nationals in 2023, David is now entering his third year in wheelchair basketball. The sport has helped him build both physical and mental strength, while the camaraderie with teammates is something he deeply values. Inspired by the quote, "There's always room for improvement," David is committed to pushing himself, excited for what the future holds in wheelchair basketball.