Augusto Perez

In October of 2005, Augusto "Goose" Perez tried wheelchair curling for the first time. Just seven weeks later, he was trying out for the U.S. Paralympic Wheelchair Curling Team. Goose ended up surpassing expectations as he became a key player on the Wheelchair Curling Team in Torino. Goose now has the opportunity to represent the United States for a second time when he takes to the ice at the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games in Vancouver.

Perez has had three bouts with a rare form of cancer, which resulted in significant muscular loss. Instead of letting this become a setback, Goose uses the experience as a catalyst to motivating people across the country to pursue their passions and goals. He speaks for sponsors such as the Hartford and AT&T, as well as community organizations and universities, teaching the importance of dedication and goal setting. Goose is also dedicated to giving back to the community and serves as a volunteer spanish tutor for middle and high school students.

Born in Madrid, Spain, Goose is one of the only hispanic athletes on the US Paralympic Team. He came to the U.S. in 1991 for his senior year of high school and was offered a scholarship from Paul Smith's College in upstate New York. He decided to stay in the States and continued on to receive his bachelor's degree from Le Moyne College (Syracuse, N.Y.) in Spanish with a minor in education.  An avid sportsman, Goose is a soccer assistant and a member of the Syracuse Flyers wheelchair basketball team.