USA Wheelchair Handball Finalizes Roster for International Competition After Successful Tryouts in Auburn, AL

AUBURN, AL — USA Team Handball is proud to announce the final roster for the 2025 USA Wheelchair National Team, selected following two highly competitive tryout sessions held at the newly opened Lake Wilmore Park Recreation Center in Auburn, Alabama. Out of a record 76 athletes—marking a significant increase from last year’s pool—the top 10 athletes have been named to the national team, with four additional athletes selected as alternates.

The finalized roster includes five returning silver medalists from the historic 2024 World Championship team and five athletes who will make their Team USA debut. The blend of seasoned international competitors and rising talent reflects the team’s continued evolution and growing depth.

“We are incredibly proud of the level of competitiveness, athleticism, skill, and commitment demonstrated by all athletes who participated in this year’s tryouts,” said Head Coach Ford Dyke. “Our final roster reflects not only the competitive standards of Team USA, but also the future of our wheelchair handball program in this country.”

Final Roster (Alphabetical by Last Name):

• Nuri Abdus-Salaam
• El-Jhari Denning
• Benjamin Edwards
• Elizabeth Pentecost**
• Gabriel Puthoff
• Joon Reid**
• Sydney Sierra Schmidt**
• Pierre Sturgis
• Harsh Thakkar**
• Chayse Wolf**

Alternates (Alphabetical by Last Name):

• Samuel Armas**
• Jian Jackson**
• Austin Mackenzie Johnson**
• Najee Smothers**

** Denotes returning USA Team Handball Wheelchair National Team athletes.

“The energy and intensity during these tryouts were unmatched," said Team Official Sarah Gascon. "We’re continuing to build something special, and a big part of that is thanks to Coach Dyke’s tireless efforts in the offseason—recruiting a new wave of elite athletes, expanding our national footprint, and helping showcase to the world what Team USA Wheelchair Handball is all about.”

The 2025 squad will return to Auburn-Opelika, AL from June 14–16 for their Send-Off Camp before traveling to Lyon, France on June 17 to compete in the Euro Hand 4 All Tournament. There, Team USA will face top international teams including France, Netherlands, Spain, Hungary, and Portugal, opening tournament play against host nation France. As the program continues to grow, USA Team Handball remains committed to developing adaptive sports and elevating wheelchair handball on the global stage.