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Now that the Summer Olympics have concluded, the world turns its attention to the upcoming Paralympic Games in Paris.
Among the dedicated professionals heading to France is Shelby Dale, an Athletic Trainer from the UTSA Sports Medicine staff, who is set to fulfill a long-held dream.
Dale’s Olympic aspirations began in 2008 during the opening ceremonies in Beijing.
"It was so impressive to me, and I just loved everything about it."
Watching the athletes and their behind-the-scenes training ignited a passion in Dale, but her athletic dreams were cut short by an injury in middle school.
"I met an Athletic Trainer after a volleyball camp injury and realized how involved they get to be with athletes and their success."
This experience inspired her to pursue a career as an Athletic Trainer. Since then, she has dedicated herself to helping athletes recover and return to their sports.
"We put in a lot of hours and sacrifice a lot in our personal lives, but seeing them go back on the field after an injury is the best feeling."
In 2018, Dale began applying with the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) and eventually traveled to Santiago, Chile, to assist at the Para Pan-American Games. There, she first heard talk of Paris.
"To me, Paris seemed out of reach, but as I heard more, I realized it was possible."
Soon after, Dale received the news she had been selected for the Paralympics in Paris.
"I read the email twice and then FaceTimed my family. It was really special to see how excited they were for me."
Dale will work with the para track and field team, providing care both in the village and trackside. While focused on her duties, she hopes to visit iconic sites like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre when her work is done.
As she heads to Paris, Dale hopes this is just the beginning of her journey on the Olympic stage. In a few days, her dream will officially come true.
Watch her news story and read the full coverge here!
