With over two decades dedicated to empowering disabled athletes, Joe stands as a beacon of inspiration in the realm of adaptive sports. His journey is not just a professional pursuit but a testament to his profound understanding of human strength and resilience.
Born into a legacy of advocacy and empowerment, Joe’s father, Dick Traum founder of the Achilles Track Club, now known as Achilles International and President Emeritus of United States Wheelchair Sports Fund nurtured Joe’s environment of embracing diversity and championing abilities. Surrounded by physically challenged individuals from an early age, he developed an innate empathy and appreciation for the human spirit. Joe's passion for enabling others led him to carve a remarkable career path in training disabled athletes, including wounded veterans. As the Director of the Handcycle Program, he orchestrated transformative journeys for athletes, guiding them through rigorous training regimes and nurturing their potential to unprecedented heights.
Under Joe's mentorship, athletes emerged as formidable contenders in numerous marathons, clinching accolades and victories that reverberated across national and international Paralympic arenas. Beyond the trophies and medals, Joe's impact resonated in the newfound confidence and self-belief instilled in the athletes he worked with.
His approach transcends conventional coaching paradigms, rooted in a deep-seated belief in the inherent capabilities of every individual. Joe recognizes that true strength lies not just in physical prowess but in the resilience of the human spirit. Through his unwavering dedication and expertise, he unlocks the latent potential within each athlete, propelling them toward their aspirations with unwavering resolve. Joe's journey is a testament to the transformative power of compassion, perseverance, and unwavering belief in the human capacity to overcome adversity.