Breaking barriers. That is something that NC Junior Alex Brown is doing in the sports world today.  Alex is one of the only track and field athletes across the state of Pennsylvania that is competing…in a wheelchair.  However, Alex does not want people to look at it this way, whether racing in a wheelchair, or not.

"No matter if you run it, or wheel it we're all doing the same thing in the end, we're racing, and we want to win.  I do it because I want wheelchair racing to be a mainstream part of track, and something that others in similar situations are encouraged to be a part of, and because I want to be successful.  I don't do it for a participation trophy, I want to win."

And while Alex is competing alongside other athletes on meet day, behind the scenes, he is advocating for change.  Last year, Alex filed a lawsuit against the PIAA.  His main goal?  For wheelchair and para-ambulatory athletes to be able to qualify and compete in the PIAA Track and Field Championships.

"Put getting good times and medals aside, my main goal, and I feel my responsibility, is to encourage as many physically disabled athletes as possible, to join track teams at their own schools."

"I would love nothing more than to race against someone next year in a meet, and to be able to see there be more athletes joining across the state and I have confidence that, that will indeed happen."

Alex competes in the 100- and 200-meter events, while also participating in shot put.  He has been able to PR in all his events that he has competed in this year.  He must meet certain standards by the PIAA to score points for his team in events, and to qualify for WPIALs.

While wanting to qualify for WPIAL and PIAA standards, ultimately, he emphasized what the most important part of sports is:

"Track and Field is one of the only sports in the country where kids with disabilities can be on the same team as their able-bodied classmates.  I think it's something we at times take for granted as high schoolers but being a part of a group with your friends, that is dedicated to success, is one of the most special things that you can ever be a part of, and I will forever be grateful for having the opportunity to be on this team."

Whether you see Alex on the track or in the classroom, it is extremely hard to miss that smiling face.  If you know him or not, it is most likely that he will say hi to you in the hallway or stop you for a conversation.  Student-athlete aside, Alex is one of the kindest, most genuine people at North Catholic.

He is an inspiration for physically disabled athletes and all athletes at North Catholic, in the state of Pennsylvania, and beyond.