Andy Yohe

Always a hockey fanatic, Andy Yohe was a roller hockey player for the Bettendorf Young Guns before losing both legs in an accident in 1994. Little did the young athlete know that his passion for hockey would translate into a trip to Paralympic Games and a bronze medal as a member of the US Sled Hockey Team.

When he was 16 years old, Yohe was run over while trying to jump onto a train. He was airlifted to The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics where his left leg was amputated below the knee and his right leg was amputated above the knee. Determined to learn to walk again, Andy did not let the loss of his legs deter him. Just three months later, Andy received his first pair of artificial limbs and began physical therary to learn how to walk.

Andy stayed active in sports, playing on wheelchair basketball teams, including the Rollin Rebels. After having traveled to the National Championship with the team, Andy's passion to play adaptive sports grew. In his collegiate years, Andy played wheelchair basketball, wheelchair football, and ultimately began a career in sled hockey with the RIC Blackhawks. In 2003, Andy received the rookie of the year award for the Blackhawks, MVP of the Chicago Rush, and the 110% trophy for the Rockford Chario.

One of his greatest accomplishments is winning a bronze medal as a member of Team USA in the Torino 2006 Olympic Winter Games. He looks forward to the opportunity to bring home another medal for Team USA at the 2010 Games in Vancouver. Andy shares his story and more importantly his message of persistance and dedication with companies, colleges, and organizations across the country.