Rise Above Penn State Athletes Shine at Move United/Hartford Nationals

Last weekend, Rise Above and Penn State Adaptive Athletics were proudly represented at the Move United/Hartford Nationals in Michigan, where Head Coach Brenna O'Connor and Assistant Coach Tim Henn led four outstanding student-athletes: Esther-Faith Henn, Jack Cunningham, Max Malec, and Lucas Resch.

Their performances were nothing short of exceptional.

The team's success extended well beyond the medal podium. Both Jack Cunningham and Lucas Resch earned qualifying marks for next weekend's Toyota USATF Para National Championships in New York. Competing at Para Nationals is an important step on their journey toward qualifying for the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.

On the track, Esther-Faith Henn captured silver medals in both the 400-meter and 800-meter races. Jack Cunningham dominated his competition, winning gold in all four of his events: the 100-meter, 200-meter, 400-meter, and 800-meter races. He also recorded season-best times in both the 100 -meter and 200-meter events.

In the field events, Lucas Resch earned gold medals in both the shot put and discus, highlighted by a personal-best throw in the shot put. Max Malec added two silver medals in the javelin and shot put, while also achieving a personal record in the shot put.

The results reflect the athletes’ dedication and the many hours they have trained throughout the season. They competed with determination while representing Rise Above and Penn State on the national stage.

Congratulations to Esther-Faith, Jack, Lucas, and Max, along with Coaches Brenna O'Connor and Tim Henn, on an outstanding weekend. We wish Jack and Lucas the very best as they compete at the Toyota USATF Para National Championships and continue their pursuit of representing Team USA at the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.