Congratulating Olympian Evan Medell

Floor Speech

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Ms. SCHOLTEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize my constituent, Mr. Evan Medell, for his exceptional performance in para-taekwondo at the 2024 Paris Paralympics. Evan proudly represented West Michigan on the world stage, displaying his exceptional talent and perseverance as one of the world's foremost para-taekwondo athletes.

Growing up in Grand Haven, Evan began his athletic journey at the Lakeshore Taekwondo Academy when he was just 12 years old. Throughout his career, Evan excelled in numerous international events, including winning gold at the 2023 Parapan American Games in Chile. When para- taekwondo made its Paralympic debut at the 2020 Tokyo Games, Evan became the first American to secure a bronze medal. Furthermore, he was the youngest athlete in history to compete in a para-taekwondo world championship. As an athlete competing with Brachial Plexus Palsy, a paralysis that impacts the nerves in the arm and hands, Evan is an inspiration to all West Michiganders who have dreams of competing at the Olympic level.

This year, Evan joined the 2024 U.S. Men's Taekwondo Team at the Paris Paralympics, where he secured a bronze medal for our country.

Mr. Speaker, once more, I ask my colleagues to join me in commending Mr. Evan Medell for his commitment to sportsmanship, his perseverance, and his outstanding athleticism. I congratulate Mr. Medell and thank him for being such an admirable representative of West Michigan.

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