Travis Dodson, a veteran of the U.S. Nationals Sled Hockey Team, continues to embody national pride as he represents the United States on the ice. Now 39 years old, Dodson is a double amputee, having lost his left leg at the hip and his right leg below the knee due to injuries sustained from a grenade while serving in Iraq in 2007. Despite the physical challenges, he has excelled in his sport, competing in three Paralympic Games and achieving remarkable success, including winning gold medals in both the 2018 and 2022 Paralympic Winter Games.
For Dodson, sled hockey serves as an extension of his military service, allowing him to maintain a connection with his country. He expresses a deep appreciation for wearing the USA jersey and is dedicated to making the most of his athletic career. “It’s a huge sense of pride, something I don’t take lightly,” Dodson shared, emphasizing the importance of living in the moment while he can still compete.
Dodson’s journey in sports began with golf in high school, and he was drawn to sled hockey during the 2014 Winter Paralympics in Sochi, Russia. After two seasons with the U.S. Developmental Sled Hockey Team, he quickly rose to prominence, contributing to the U.S. team’s impressive track record, including four consecutive Paralympic gold medals and multiple World Championship titles.
His upcoming competition against Canada in mid-February, part of the Reeve Hockey Classic in Saugus, Mass., is set to reignite their fierce rivalry. Both teams are recognized as the top contenders in sled hockey, with each match sparking intense competition. Dodson noted that the talent level among international teams is rising, with nations like China and Czechia closing the gap, ensuring that every game is fiercely contested.
As he navigates the challenges of aging as an athlete, Dodson remains focused on maintaining his skills and fitness. With the 2025 World Para Ice Hockey Championship in Buffalo on the horizon and the 2026 Paralympic Winter Games approaching in Italy, he is determined to compete at the highest level for as long as possible, hoping to secure a spot on the roster despite the competitive landscape.
Dodson’s journey serves as an inspiring testament to resilience, where he continues to chase his dreams while representing his country on the global stage. His story not only highlights athletic excellence but also embodies the spirit of perseverance through adversity.