Meet Adaptive Athlete: Stephen Clemmons

Stephen Clemmons grew up in Waxahachie, Texas, where he spent his high school years lifting weights, playing football, and singing in choir. He joined the Army National Guard in 2002 and went on to serve in four overseas deployments, supporting combat and aviation units in Iraq and Kuwait in roles ranging from site security to signal operations.

 

In 2014, Stephen was hit from behind by an SUV while jogging, resulting in severe injuries to his pelvis, hip, and right leg. After years of chronic pain and limited mobility, a fall in 2021 led to a shattered femur and ultimately, the decision to amputate his right leg above the knee in 2022. The years of slow decline took a toll mentally, but the amputation marked a turning point, giving him the opportunity to regain momentum and reclaim his identity.

 

Now, Stephen is focused on building strength, increasing mobility, and exploring adaptive sports like Brazilian jiu-jitsu. At ATF, he’s looking to learn new movement strategies and continue pushing himself forward, not just to stay strong, but to stay connected and present with the people who matter most.