Darlene Hunter facts for kids

Darlene Hunter is an amazing American wheelchair basketball player. She was born on April 16, 1982, in Walled Lake, Michigan. Darlene is a key member of the United States women's national wheelchair basketball team. She has won many medals and is a true inspiration in the world of sports.

Darlene's Early Life and Education

Darlene Hunter grew up near Detroit, Michigan. When she was four years old, she had an accident that affected her spine. Even with this challenge, Darlene loved being active and playing sports.

When she went to college, her talent for athletics led her to discover Wheelchair basketball. This sport quickly became her passion. She attended several universities, including Walled Lake Western High School, University of Arizona, University of Texas at Arlington, and Texas Women's University. Her education helped her grow both as a person and as an athlete.

Becoming a Wheelchair Basketball Star

Darlene Hunter has had a fantastic career in wheelchair basketball, winning many important competitions.

Paralympic Games Achievements

Darlene has represented the United States at the Paralympic Games, which are like the Olympics for athletes with disabilities.

• In 2012, she competed in London. Her team played very well and finished in fourth place.
• Four years later, in 2016, Darlene and her team achieved their dream. They won the gold medal at the 2016 Summer Paralympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil! This was a huge victory for them.

World Championships and Pan American Games

Darlene has also excelled in other major international tournaments:

• She became a world champion at the 2010 Wheelchair Basketball World Championship.
• She won a gold medal at the 2011 Parapan American Games.
• In 2014, she competed in the 2014 Women's World Wheelchair Basketball Championship.
• She earned another gold medal at the 2015 Parapan American Games.
• In 2019, Darlene traveled to Lima, Peru, to compete in her second ParaPan American Games.

Inspiring Others Through Basketball

Darlene Hunter is not just an amazing athlete; she also works hard to help other young people.

Founding a Basketball Camp

She started an annual wheelchair basketball camp specifically for women. This camp helps young female athletes learn the sport and develop their skills. It's a great way for Darlene to give back to her community.

"Everyday Hero" Recognition

In 2017, Darlene was honored as an "Everyday Hero" at the "espnW: Women + Sports Summit." She received a $10,000 grant, which is like a special award of money. Darlene used this money to make her basketball camp even better and offer more free programs. The camp is based at the University of Texas at Arlington.

Darlene Hunter's dedication to her sport and her efforts to inspire others make her a true role model.