Carlos Changemaker
The spotlight is on Paris as it hosts the 2024 Summer Olympics for the first time in a century, running from July 24 to Aug. 11.
Team USA features high school athletes this summer, including newcomers balancing school work with their Olympic dreams in sports like gymnastics and skateboarding.
Budding stars like gymnast Hezly Rivera and sprinter Quincy Wilson are capturing the hearts of fans as they embark on their Olympic journey.
Get to know six standout high school athletes who are part of Team USA. Let the games commence!
Skateboarding made its Olympic debut in the 2020 Tokyo Games and is now back in Paris, where talents like Paige Heyn from Tempe, Arizona, are making waves in the sport.
Heyn has been instrumental in advancing women’s skateboarding, catching the attention of coach John Nicholson, who credits her rapid progress in shaping the competition landscape.
Despite her young age of 16, Heyn’s unique switch skating style sets her apart, demonstrating prowess with both feet forward.
While pursuing her passion, Heyn keeps up with her academics at the United States Performance Academy, showing dedication to her studies while excelling in skateboarding.
According to her learning coach Blair Lurr, Heyn is thriving in her World History class and has also taken an interest in learning American Sign Language.
At just 17 years old, Claire Weinstein has solidified her position as one of the brightest swimmers, having qualified for the U.S. Olympic Trials at a remarkably young age.
Weinstein’s exceptional academic track record at Laurel Springs School and her unwavering dedication to training have earned her praise from teachers and coaches alike.
Coach Carle Fierro commends Weinstein’s rapid absorption of feedback, technical prowess in the water, and her selfless commitment to teaching young swimmers.
Planning a future in either law or medicine, Weinstein’s dedication to both academics and swimming sets her apart as a top recruit for the University of California-Berkeley.
At 16 years old, Quincy Wilson has secured a historic position on the Team USA relay squad, becoming the youngest male track and field Olympian.
An honor roll student at Bullis School in Potomac, Maryland, Wilson’s enthusiasm for learning and positive approach to education have earned him accolades from his teachers.
Wilson’s involvement in extracurricular activities and his academic achievements have been acknowledged with prestigious awards, highlighting his multidimensional talents both on and off the track.
When not engaged in athletic pursuits, Wilson enjoys gaming with friends and brings a sense of camaraderie and leadership to his school community.
Described as a well-rounded student and friend by Bullis Head of Upper School Robert Pollinco, Wilson embodies the spirit of excellence in all his endeavors.
17-year-old Alex Shackell created history by becoming the first female swimmer from Indiana’s Carmel High School to qualify for the U.S. Olympic team.
Recognizing her role in the legacy of Indiana swimming and her school’s storied athletic tradition, Shackell’s journey to the Olympics showcases her commitment to excellence.
With a promising future at the University of California-Berkeley as a competitive swimmer, Shackell’s dedication to her sport and academic pursuits is a testament to her drive and ambition.
Joining her older brother Aaron Shackell at the Olympic games, she looks forward to representing her school and state on the international stage.
Thomas Heilman, 17, recently emerged as the youngest American male swimmer to qualify for the Olympics since legendary swimmer Michael Phelps.
However, Heilman remains focused on his own journey, setting his sights on the present rather than dwelling on comparisons to established champions.
An upcoming senior at Western Albemarle High School, Heilman’s commitment to his sport has earned him recognition as one of the top swimming recruits in his class, culminating in his decision to represent the University of Virginia.
Hezly Rivera, hailing from New Jersey, is the youngest member of Team USA at the Paris Olympics.
After relocating to Texas, Rivera trains under the tutelage of Valeri and Anna Liukin at World Olympics Gymnastics Academy, famed for producing Olympic champions.
While Rivera’s downtime includes baking and relaxation, her dedication to gymnastics is unwavering as she balances training commitments with her online education at Inspire Academy.
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