BlazeSports Alumnus, Collin Lancaster was first introduced to adaptive sports in 2010. Twelve years later, his determination and excellence in wheelchair basketball named him as one of only 12 athletes nationwide to be invited to the U.S. Men’s Under 23 team and represent Team USA at an international event in Mexico. Even more impressive is that Collin was only one of two high school seniors selected for the team. His hard work took him to the University of Alabama to play at the collegiate level.
Collin was 5 years old when his family got in a car accident. He spent eight weeks in the hospital with a spinal cord injury before he was released with a new way of navigating the world – on wheels. That didn’t stop him, though. He got involved with BlazeSports in 2010 and not only tried almost every sport, but excelled at them all. However, Collin is more than just a tremendous athlete, he is also an incredible leader.
Collin truly shines in his character and leadership growth on and off the court. In the last two years, he has become a leader and mentor for younger athletes. He can be seen at practices helping us with new or younger athletes, encouraging them and serving as a positive role model.
Many coaches, teammates and BlazeSports staff have so many positive words about Collin on his athleticism and his leadership skills:
“He is my mentor and always has a positive attitude. He encourages me as well as other teammates. He’s very athletic and determined,” said fellow BlazeSports athlete Braxton Munkel.
“He is emerging as a leader of the team, and I can’t wait to watch him continue to compete over the next few years. His courage and heart are a role model for me personally and it’s my privilege to serve him,” said Collin’s former coach Jason Joines.
Collin’s too humble to recognize he’s a role model, but he has a message for anyone reaching for a dream.
“Trust the process. Keep going. Keep pushing through. It’s going to get tough, but I mean, that’s what it takes. That’s what makes everybody great is when they push through even the rough times,” he said.
Collin trusted the process and with that, has accomplished a lot. The one he is proudest of is the 2022 Big Peach Slam Jam. He has made many memories over the years with us. His favorite memory is winning four straight National Championships at BlazeSports. His future is very bright and we can’t wait to see where it takes him.
To learn more about Colin Lancaster and his athletic career, check out his story with local TV station, 11Alive.