GameDay Network

Charlie Cooper: From Dreams to Paralympic Aspirations

November 15, 2025
Discover Charlie Cooper's journey from battling spina bifida to becoming a Junior Wheelchair Tennis Champion and his Paralympic dreams.
Charlie Cooper's sports journey is nothing short of inspiring. Born with spina bifida, Charlie faced significant challenges that made participating in conventional team sports impossible. However, a serendipitous encounter at a guitar shop introduced him to tennis, setting him on a path to greatness. Under the guidance of Coach Dwayne Begay, Charlie has transformed into a world-class wheelchair tennis player, clinching prestigious titles like the U.S. Open Junior Wheelchair Championship and excelling at international competitions. His hard work, humility, and determination continue to drive him as he prepares for the upcoming Paralympic Games in Los Angeles. Beyond his achievements, Charlie's mission is to inspire children with disabilities to pursue their dreams in sports.