Quad Rugby/Story - USQRA Names Kirkland Athlete of Year

UNITED STATES QUAD RUGBY ASSOCIATION

April 2003

Kirkland named USQRA Athlete of the Year

In 1992, Bryan Kirkland of Moody, Alabama was injured in a Motocross accident that left him a C-7 quadriplegic. Prior to his injury he was an extremely active person who regularly participated in basketball, football, and semi-professional motocross racing. Racing was fast and invigorating, and unfortunately was the sport that left him paralyzed.

Within six months of being injured, Kirkland was seeking out new ways to vent his competitive nature. He found what he was looking for soon after being introduced to quad rugby and the Lakeshore Demolition. The contact, speed and intensity of the game had him hooked. Following his first tournament at the Valdosta Cup in 1994, Bryan’s desires started to come into focus. He wanted to be a leader and win at whatever he did.

Consulting with coach, Kevin Orr, Kirkland made it clear that he wanted to get into better shape. Orr suggested that he try racing, and soon after Bryan was regularly pushing a racing chair. He developed into his second sport slowly, but really concentrated on technique. He would get discouraged because the guys with more function were always beating him. Orr kept him focused, stating that no one else had the physical potential that he had. Once he realized this he really took off. Kirkland’s skills as a duel sport athlete began to shine through.

At Lakeshore's first appearance at USQRA Nationals (1996) in Houston, Kirkland was named Rookie of the Year. The following season he made several all tournament teams as best 2.0. In 1998, Bryan set a World Record in the 200 meters at track World Championships. In 1999, the Demolition won their first USQRA National Championship. Kirkland traveled to New Zealand that same year and helped Team USA Rugby capture Gold at the World Wheelchair Games.

In 2000, Bryan was determined to make the US Paralympic Team one way or another. He trained hard for both track and rugby, but made rugby his priority. His effort and hard work paid off and were rewarded in the form of a Paralympic Gold Medal in Rugby. In 2002, Kirkland competed twice internationally, in each track and rugby. As part of Team USA at the Wheelchair Rugby World Championships he returned home with a Silver Medal.

With five consecutive National Championships in rugby, a few Gold medals and a room full of trophies it is clear that Kirkland’s desires to be the best have come together. He credits his wife Shai, and the Home Depot Olympic work program for giving him the chance to be a dedicated athlete. Congratulations on all of your achievements to date and good luck in the future.

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