Meet our Alumni Spotlight Maggie Frederick
Meet the BlazeSports Alumni Spotlight Maggie Frederick. She was born with spina bifida. Her passion for athletics began at a young age, leading her to BlazeSports after attending a meet and greet. Intrigued by the organization, Maggie joined BlazeSports summer camp and became a full-fledged athlete at age ten. She continued with BlazeSports until high school graduation and then attended the University of Illinois.
From College Graduate to BlazeSports Office Manager
After graduating from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Maggie, like many college graduates, faced the challenge of finding work. She returned to BlazeSports through an internship, which led to a full-time position as the office manager.
Personal and Athletic Growth at BlazeSports
BlazeSports profoundly impacted Maggie’s personal and athletic development. “Working with BlazeSports taught me not only who I was as an athlete but also who I am as a person. They helped me gain independence and prepared me for the transition to college and beyond,” Maggie says. The organization helped her build both self-confidence and independence.
Developing Leadership Skills Through Coaching
At BlazeSports, it also gave Maggie the opportunity to develop leadership skills. Working with young athletes, she learned patience and how to communicate effectively with athletes and their families. These coaching experiences shaped her ability to connect with others.
Advice to Parents
At BlazeSports, Maggie encourages parents to get their children involved. “Definitely get your kids involved. It’s super important to be around others who look like you, especially when having a disability. Blaze provided me with the community I was missing elsewhere,” she says.
A Sense of Belonging at BlazeSports
Through BlazeSports, Maggie found a sense of belonging among people who shared similar experiences. The community supported her growth both personally and athletically.
Maggie’s Current Role and Her Legacy
Currently, Maggie works with the Sandy Springs Parks and Recreation team and is also a proud member of BlazeSports’ inaugural Lady Ballers basketball team, the organization’s first all-female wheelchair basketball team.
