Schlappi, Mike
ABOUT
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TESTIMONIALS
About Mike Schlappi
My Gold Medal Journey started the first time I played wheelchair basketball just a few short months after my injury. I was immediately “hooked” as I realized it was the same, fun, and competitive game that I had known on my feet. Shooting, dribbling, passing, height, speed, and teamwork were still the important parts of the game. For me, the most difficult part was learning to push and maneuver the wheelchair. I immediately set my sights on purchasing a new sports wheelchair so that I could maximize my potential and compete at the highest levels.
The highest level of competition in wheelchair basketball is the Paralympics. I set my sights on making the 1988 team that would represent the United States in Seoul, South Korea. Fortunately, my skills were recognized by my peers and I was invited to tryout against the top 60 players from around the country. I made the final cut and my official journey began. My teammates and I would meet several times each year at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs as we prepared for the competition.
I will always remember rolling into each opening ceremony as 100,000 fans waved, cheered, and welcomed us to their country. I will cherish the memories of 1988 and 1992 as the USA beat Holland and was awarded the Gold Medals as our National Anthem played. As a competitor, there is no greater feeling than knowing that you’ve outdone the greatest competition the world can offer. And, even more, knowing that my wife, children, parents and siblings could share the moment.
Although initially disappointed at winning the Bronze in 1996 in Atlanta and 2000 in Sydney, each Paralympic experience has brought new insight and meaning as I have gained an appreciation for the athletic abilities of all athletes with disabilities. At each paralympics, I have had the privilege of watching some amazing accomplishments.
I remember watching the blind play soccer as they followed the beeping ball. I remember watching a dwarf bench press nearly 300 pounds. I remember watching an amputee run the 100 meters in 11 seconds and a blind long jumper soar over 20 feet. All individuals with disabilities have been blessed by the paralympic movement and the awareness that has been created. An equal thanks goes to all of the companies and individuals who have invented and manufactured equipment that has allowed the athletes to showcase their talents.
Whether Gold or Bronze, I have learned to enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
Safety Motivation
At the age of 14 Mike was shot in the chest, by a friend, at point blank range; paralyzing 2/3 of his body. In his keynote, he shares his Olympic medals, a powerful media presentation, and the actual bullet he was shot with to teach audiences that “this didn’t need to happen; it could have been prevented”. Mike’s powerful message leaves a lasting impression that this didn’t just happen to him. It affected his family, his friends, the community, and even his future wife and children.
Mike and his family continue to face challenges daily because of the split second decision that was made in regards to safety or the lack thereof. His entertaining message changes the way people think about carelessness and the magnitude of their decisions in the work place. A few of his themes are:
“There’s no such thing as a bronze medal in safety”.
“Put Your Safety On”
“Safety is NO ACCIDENT”
“The Gold Standard of Safety”
Corporate/Sales
Mike’s message is a perfect fit for both large and small corporations who are forced to make changes to adapt and thrive in today’s shifting world. Through entertaining and personal stories, Mike teaches sales professionals that “all motivation is self motivation”. His philosophy is “If you resist change – you fail. If you accept change – you survive. If you create change – you succeed”
Mike has observed that sales professionals’ minds are full of thoughts such as products, territories, customers, quotas, etc. He knows that all of these concepts are important, yet worthless, if they are not cemented in the heart. That is his specialty.
Healthcare
Mike has a background in Healthcare – His personal experiences with nurses, doctors and therapists not only saved his life, but also pointed him to a career in healthcare. Mike earned his MBA from Arizona State University in Healthcare administration. He served as the Director of Rehabilitation for Intermountain Healthcare in Salt Lake City for 10 years, giving him credibility with audiences in the healthcare arena.
Mike’s entertaining keynote includes personal stories, and a powerful media presentation. He shares his Olympic medals and the bullet he was shot with to teach others that growth and success are directly linked to the way we respond to challenges and adversity. His life’s motto is “If You Can’t Stand Up, Stand Out”.
Financial
Mike has a strong background in the financial services industry. He has his life, health and securities licenses, has his MBA, and recently was a main platform speaker at the “Million Dollar Round Table”; all of which give him credibility when speaking to an audience in the financial fields.
Testimonials
“Mike Schlappi’s life teaches anyone who has ever thought that the mountain was too high, or the valley was too wide, that the will of the human heart can conquer all obstacles. Mike’s story, is a story of heart, commitment, and valiant perseverance. He is a role model to all, and a real hero.”
– Orrin Hatch, United States Senator
“I have listened to Mike Schlappi’s story and message several times. I am always entertained and leave with the feeling and conviction that if Mike can do it – so can I. To many of us at Ikon Office Solutions, Mike Schlappi is an icon in a very unique way.”
– Bob Ferland, President, Ikon Office Solutions
“Mike’s life is a great accomplishment in an All-American way… He is an inspiration to people everywhere who want to succeed.”
– Bill Clinton, Former President of the United States
“Your keynote presentation was inspiring, timely, and motivational. Several of our employees mentioned that your message was a perfect kick off to our conference.”
– Ron Heinz, Sr. Vice President of Marketing, Novell Inc.
“It was an honor to feel of your spirit and enthusiasm at our annual football motivational seminar at the Marriott Center. It is obvious why the members of our staff speak so highly of your speaking abilities.”
– LaVell Edwards, Retired Head Football Coach, Brigham Young University
“Your remarks captured the hearts and imagination of our entire organization. Your message of triumph following your accident is a remarkable lesson of the power of a positive attitude.”
– United States Olympic Committee