Kyle Maynard, making friends wherever he goes…
(Fairport, NY) 02/04/05 – A young man told Fairport students his story Friday, sharing lessons that go a long way in life. Kyle Maynard was born without elbows or knees but that doesn’t stop him.
When the challenge to wrestle came up in sixth grade, Kyle met it head on.
Yes, he lost his first match. In fact he lost his first 35 matches, but he didn’t give up.
It was his philosophy he shared with students at Fairport high school: “No excuses. I make excuses for how I will succeed, why I will meet my goals,” he said
Among his goals: to never get pinned. He never has.
In fact he turned around that losing record and went on to become a top high school wrestler. He excelled at football, weight lifting, and is now wrestling at the University of Georgia while sharing his message that anyone can accomplish anything.
Kyle’s message struck a chord with Elizabeth Tota–they’ve been dating now for four months. She said, “Kyle is normal to me…..he doesn’t feel sorry for himself. “
Kyle makes frequent trips to Rochester now because of Elizabeth. He keeps a busy schedule, going to college, wrestling, and speaking all over the country.
He’s been featured on ESPN, HBO and Larry King.
“There’s no challenge I won’t meet,” said Kyle.
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