In This Article:
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESS Newswire / April 3, 2025 / By John Dorval
This April, Cisco's Americas Service Provider team is proud to sponsor two-time U.S. Paralympic skier Spencer Wood at AS2025 in Vail, Colorado April 3 - 6. For nearly 30 years, the marquee event for Adaptive Spirit has united telecommunications leaders and the adaptive sports community to support and celebrate the U.S. Para Ski and Snowboard Team.
Adaptive Spirit is a powerful example of what's possible when industries come together with a shared commitment to inclusivity and opportunity. By investing in adaptive athletes, the event helps create a world where physical limitations don't define potential-a vision that closely aligns with Cisco's Purpose to Power an Inclusive Future for All.
A Journey of Determination
As a passionate skier myself, I know firsthand the dedication and grit the sport demands. That's why Spencer's story struck such a chord with me. Born with hemiplegia of the right side of his body, he faced obstacles that might have seemed insurmountable to others. But for Spencer, adversity was just another challenge to overcome. With relentless determination, he honed his skills, defied expectations, and proved that limits are meant to be pushed.
The Power of Teamwork and Belief
The first time I met Spencer, I was immediately impressed by his unwavering focus and the incredible support system that surrounds him; his journey is not a solo endeavor but a team effort. Spencer's success is the result of coaches, trainers, and family members all working together toward a common goal.
As Spencer eloquently puts it, "While it's the athlete who crosses the finish line, the entire team is behind the victory." This quote underscores the importance of collaboration and support in achieving success.
Much like Spencer's experience, this collaborative spirit is at the heart of what we at Cisco call "One Cisco." It's a philosophy where innovation, success, and meaningful change are driven by working together as a team. Just as Spencer relies on the collective efforts of those around him, Cisco thrives by fostering a culture of teamwork and unity, ensuring that together, we can accomplish more than we ever could alone.
One of Spencer's favorite quotes is from Ted Lasso: "Believe." It's a simple yet powerful mantra that fuels his work. That same belief-the conviction that anything is possible with the right mindset-is what drives Cisco forward as well. We believe in pushing boundaries, in powering inclusion, and in creating a future where technology and determination can shatter barriers.