Vernon-based Paralympian, Josh Dueck, believes that sport has the power to unite people—inspiration gleaned from South African leader Nelson Mandela. Though his journey has taken him around the globe, Josh has found and forged a strong community right here at Silver Star.
The athlete, who has dedicated his 20-plus year career as a skier, coach, and sport advocate, is no stranger to tackling challenges. His lived experience is dotted by pivotal moments that left him to rely on his passion and perseverance.
Josh first ventured to Vernon from Kimberley to take on the position of head coach for the Silver Star Freestyle Ski Club, which is renowned for grooming world-class athletes (think: Olympics and X-Games calibre). It was here, in 2004, that he suffered a life-changing spinal cord injury while performing a jump, which left him paralyzed on the lower half of his body.
“Unfortunately, my tenure as head coach didn’t last that long because of the injury that I sustained; however, I felt it was imperative that I stay in the community and go through my healing journey with the athletes that were witness to my injury, their parents, the families, and the overarching ski community around Silver Star.”
Publication: Destination Silver Star Blog (destinationsilverstar.com)
Photo: Seb Berthiaume
Amber Turnau | Storyteller 