Meet Adaptive Athlete: James Nance

James grew up in Stockton, California. After high school, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and in 1993 became a law enforcement officer. James is passionate about archery and long rifle shooting. In August 2018, James was riding his service motorcycle and pulling a vehicle over for a traffic violation when an SUV struck him on the left side at 40 mph. The incident left him with a burst fracture at the T10 level, eleven broken ribs, two collapsed lungs, aortic dissection, and a broken tibia and fibula in his left leg.

 

James underwent two surgeries and spent 14 days in the ICU after the accident. During the early stages of recovery and physical therapy, James tore his rotator cuff, adding to the challenges his injury posed and eventually requiring another surgery. During his recovery process, James was surrounded by a very supportive network of family, coworkers, and friends in Stockton. 

 

James wants to use his time at ATF to improve his physical fitness. He plans to compete for a spot on the USA Para Archery team to represent his country in the Paralympics. James also wants to continue finding ways to quiet his mind after spending years in a very fast-paced career.