“Being a Woman in Sports Means Being Able to Be a Trailblazer” – Jayci Simon
Paralympic Games silver medalist, Jayci Simon is writing an incredible story with her life, not only because she won one of the first medals for the region at Paris 2024, but because her effort and dedication have allowed her to go far, inspired by other women and serving as an example for future generations.
Athlete, college student, and part-time optician, Jayci started very young in the sport and participated in her first Pan Am Championship in 2018, learning more about badminton and the Pan Am Para badminton family, which is a very nice and inspiring community.
“Para badminton has given me a sense of community and has allowed me to travel the world, experiencing all the new culture and food. I also love how it has given me a purpose to be the best version of myself every day!”
As her career progressed, she achieved various goals, from the smallest objectives to the biggest dreams. Such as beating a world champion or qualifying for the Paralympic Games. The moment she found out about her presence in Paris was one of the most important in her sports career. Not only because it was a dream come true, but because all the effort she put in during this time was finally worth it.
“April 3, 2024, when I got the call, I had qualified for the last spot in mixed doubles in Paris. I had always dreamed of qualifying for the Olympic/Paralympics and competing at the biggest stage in the world. It was so many emotions, from not thinking I was going to qualify to finding out that all my hard work paid off, and I had the opportunity to compete in Paris!!”
The example of female athletes who have achieved various things inspired her life, including renowned gymnast Simone Biles and Giuliana Poveda, World Para badminton champion.
“When I first began, Giuliana Poveda was a female figure that inspired me. She was on the rise when I started and had made a name for herself, which was impressive. Simone Biles is also someone I’ve looked up to because she has taught me that it’s how you return from your setbacks that makes you so great.”
“Being able to see the growth and achievements of other women in sports has shown me that there are other women out there who strive for greatness. My mom, who is one of the biggest influential women in my life, she has taught me that hard work pays off. This has allowed me to dream big!”
But not everything has been easy for Jayci in the sport. In her early days, she had to compete against boys, which didn’t allow for a level playing field, but each achievement allowed her to overcome different situations and forge a path toward her dreams.
“Growing up, I played against boys most of the time in order to have a team. Although it gave me a lot of competition, it wasn’t an even playing field. So being a woman in sports means being able to be a trailblazer to show others what you can do with hard work and dedication. I want to continue to increase women participation, so the younger generations get the opportunity to compete on an even playing field.”
Her own experience also inspires her to encourage more women to get involved in sports. Just as she was inspired by other women, she is now also an inspiration to many young people striving to achieve their goals.