Contributor Bio: David Wagner

Adversity is where champions are born.  David Wagner has had his fair share of hard days.  It was in his darkest moments that David became unstoppable, unshakeable, and unforgettable.  Ranked #1 Quad Tennis player in the world, David Wagner has a remarkably mature perspective on taking on challenges.  His life has taught him the truth of the old adage that “the strongest steel is forged in the hottest fires”.  Beneath his handsome good looks is an intense competitor!

David was a collegiate level tennis player prior his injury in August 1995.  Paralyzed from the chest down and having only limited hand function, David has discovered the unique skills on the tennis court that surpass any expectations.  His understanding of the game is instinctive.  Just a glimpse at his tennis highlights will confirm that he is an elite athlete.  In 2010 and 2011 David was the U.S. Open Singles and Doubles Champion.  He is currently ranked #1 in the world in Quad Singles and ranked #1 World in Quad Doubles.  He has also been one of the top 3 players in the world since 2002!

None of David’s achievements have come easy.  It’s been a long, arduous path.  David turned tennis pro in 2001.  He currently resides in The Olympic Training Center at Chula Vista, California.  David is no different than any other Olympic hopeful.  His training is a full-time job and can consume more than eight hours a day.  When he's not training David is working diligently to pursue his dream of winning another gold at the 2016 Paralympics in Rio de Janeiro.  Winning gold is nothing new to him.  In 2004, 2008, and 2012 Paralympics, David brought home the gold medal in the Quad Doubles and medaled in the Singles.

Hours and hours of training sets David apart from other athletes.  He also logs in over 125,000 travel miles a year!  David’s success is the culmination of years of training, lots of hard work, perseverance, speed, agility and lots of spirited grit.  His passion is tennis!

David joins our team to share his experiences to encourage others.  His passion for tennis, life, and adventure is true motivation!  David is committed to nothing but the best.  He aggressively pursues the finest skills needed to propel his athletic career.  He is dissatisfied with anything less.  Not only does he pursue perfection, he craves it.  The name "David Wagner" is synonymous with two other words, "Gold Medal".  We are proud to share David's story here in the Bard Care Community.  Check back often to see where David’s Olympic journey takes him next.