Making the varsity team is a goal for many young high school athletes, But, a Waseca 16–year–old is preparing for something even bigger.
Lexi Shifflet says, "I was missing my fibula and ankle bones and the two toes."
High school junior Lexi Shifflet was born with a disorder that left her right leg shorter than the other. Her leg was amputated when she was only 11 months old.
Shiffet says, "I just like being active and playing the sport and being out with my friends."
Nat Kelli Fagerness says "Day one you wouldn't notice it, she moves so smoothly out on the court."
Head Volleyball coach Kelli Fagerness didn't know what to expect when she first met Lexi two seasons ago as a freshman. Now, she sets a great example and is considered a role model to the other players on the team.
Head Volleyball Coach, Kelli Fagerness says, "All her teammates can look at her and say if she's working that hard and only has one leg then obviously I can work just that hard as well."
This has been Lexi's norm throughout her entire life... and although there have been challenges along the way it's never hindered her abilities on or off the court.
Shefflit says, " I don't let it define me, really I'm just myself. When people meet me they say oh you have a prosthetic leg but then after a little bit they don't notice it anymore."
Her reason to keep pushing forward, while exceeding other's expectations...a big dream.
With support from her family and friends, coach and teammates she's set her sights on the 2016 Paralympics in Rio De Janeiro.
This November she'll travel to Oklahoma to practice with the US National Women's Sitting Volleyball Team where she plays setter, she's well on her way.
Shifflett says, "You can't let anything stop you the little things can change it but you can figure out a way, nothing is ever too hard."
