ZURICH, SWITZERLAND — November 2025

Texas Stampede wheelchair rugby standout Liz Dunn recently returned from representing the United States at the International Low Point Wheelchair Rugby Tournament in Switzerland, where she competed against some of the top low-point athletes in the world. Her participation continues to highlight the depth, talent, and leadership emerging from the Texas Stampede program and the broader adaptive sports community.

A Familiar Challenge — But a Unique Format
For Dunn, international play is nothing new — but the structure of the Swiss event stood out.
“It was not much different than many other tournaments I’ve been to, both international and domestic,” Dunn explained. “The main difference was the schedule — one game the first day, three the second, and two games the final day. It felt similar to a club tournament but made for a long and intense day of competition.”
The grueling three-day schedule tested endurance and strategy, but Dunn’s experience as a seasoned low-pointer helped her maintain composure and consistency throughout the weekend.

Raising the Bar for Low Point Athletes
When asked about the international level of play, Dunn was quick to praise her global counterparts.
“Absolutely, there were some incredible players in Switzerland,” she said. “Low point has only become more popular in the States with the introduction of the summer league here. I feel like we’ll only continue to improve as players keep competing.”
Her remarks underscore the growing recognition of low point rugby as a specialized discipline — one that challenges athletes to excel in ball control, defense, and communication under intense physical and tactical constraints.

The Future of Low Point Rugby
Low point rugby continues to evolve globally, with athletes and organizers exploring how it could exist alongside other established formats.
“I’ve had a lot of fun playing in low point rugby. I feel like I can make more of a difference on the court,” Dunn shared. “I’m not sure yet how it will grow since there’s overlap between all versions of rugby — one player can only participate in so much. I was actually brought into USA Low Point as an alternate because one player had a conflict with USA Wheelchair Rugby.”
Her comments reflect the sport’s current crossroads — a movement with immense potential for growth, but one still defining its path within the larger adaptive rugby ecosystem.

Adapting the Game: New Rules, New Challenges
This season, the low point game also saw the implementation of rule changes that altered the pace and dynamics of play.
“The switch from 10 seconds to 8 seconds was more difficult in low point, in my opinion,” Dunn said. “We’re a bit slower and take longer to do things like inbounding or dribbling. Two seconds can be huge — but I think it worked well and everyone adapted.”
Her insight reveals how even small changes can reshape the balance of competition, strategy, and timing — especially in divisions defined by precision and teamwork.

Emerging Talent on the Horizon
The Swiss tournament also showcased rising stars on both the U.S. and international scenes.
“It was great to see a mix of experienced players and newer athletes,” Dunn noted. “Rugby takes a lot of commitment at every level. I think any of these athletes can make a big difference on their teams. I’m not sure what’s next for low point internationally, but both Joe Snyder and Sebastian Broussard are trying out this week for USAWR, and I wish them luck!”

Expanding Inclusion and Representation
Dunn also offered thoughtful commentary on the evolving classification system and its impact on female athletes.
“It’s interesting that the 1.0 classification addition only applies to certain players,” she said. “I feel for women classified 1.5 and below since they still only receive a 0.5 addition. If you’re choosing between a 1.5 woman and a 2.0 woman, you’ll likely take the 2.0 since she receives the full one-point allowance. I’m happy that progress is being made to bring more women in, but I think more research needs to be done to find the best way.”
Her perspective emphasizes the ongoing need to refine inclusion models to ensure equity and opportunity for women athletes in adaptive rugby.

What’s Next for Dunn and Low Point Rugby
Looking ahead, Dunn plans to continue her low point journey domestically.
“Absolutely — I’ve been playing with the Grand Rapids Low Point Team for the last several seasons and have really been enjoying it,” she said. “I’m interested to see what’s next for low point.”
Her enthusiasm mirrors that of the broader low point community — one filled with players, coaches, and fans who see the format not just as an offshoot of wheelchair rugby, but as a platform for innovation, inclusion, and high-performance competition.

About the Texas Stampede
The Texas Stampede Wheelchair Rugby Team continues to be a powerhouse in adaptive sports, fostering elite athletes who compete at the national and international levels while growing the sport across Texas and beyond.
For more information about the Texas Stampede and its athletes, visit www.FearTheSteer.org

AUSTIN, Texas — November 6, 2025.

For over a decade, Daniel Curtis has been a driving force within the Texas Stampede Wheelchair Rugby Team, using his platform and experiences to inspire others within the adaptive sports and spinal cord injury community. This week, Daniel once again demonstrated what leadership looks like in motion—hosting the 13th Annual “Pay It Forward” Fundraising Event, an evening that blended gratitude, generosity, and growth in remarkable fashion.

“Last night, Thursday, November 6 I hosted the 13th Annual Pay It Forward Fundraising Event. It was one of those evenings that truly humbled me. To look around the room and see 400–450 people—many from my early days in the hospitality industry standing side-by-side with members of my newer disability community—was incredibly moving. It felt like two chapters of my life blending into one powerful story of support, inclusion, and love.” — Daniel Curtis

The Pay It Forward event has become one of Austin’s most meaningful annual gatherings—bringing together professionals, athletes, friends, and families to uplift those impacted by spinal cord injuries and other neurological conditions. Yet the impact extends far beyond the individuals directly affected. Funds raised through this event touch families, caregivers, and community organizations that work tirelessly to restore independence, provide resources, and build pathways for inclusion.

This year’s event embodied that spirit more than ever.
“Together, we raised close to $200,000 to uplift and empower individuals with physical disabilities. But beyond the number, what made this night unforgettable was the spirit and energy in the room: people showing up for one another, celebrating community, and choosing to make a difference. This event reminded me that when we unite across our different backgrounds, experiences, and journeys, we don’t just fundraise—we create belonging, hope, and change. That’s the true heart of Pay It Forward, and I am deeply grateful to everyone who helped make it possible.” — Daniel Curtis

Through his leadership both on and off the court, Daniel continues to use his Stampede roots and personal journey to create opportunities for others. His blend of athletic passion, community advocacy, and professional network has turned Pay It Forward into more than a fundraiser—it’s a movement of connection and compassion.
The Texas Stampede family celebrates Daniel’s continued efforts and the incredible community that stands behind him each year. His story is a reminder that impact begins with a single act of giving—and grows when we all decide to pay it forward.

For more information about Daniel Curtis, the Pay It Forward Foundation, and the Texas Stampede Wheelchair Rugby Team, visit: www.fearthesteer.org