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Cisco Supports Paralympian Spencer Wood at AS2025



04/07/2025


Celebrating Resilience and Unity at AS2025
This April, Cisco’s Americas Service Provider team is thrilled to support two-time U.S. Paralympic skier Spencer Wood during the AS2025 event in Vail, Colorado, taking place from April 3–6. For nearly three decades, Adaptive Spirit has brought together leaders in telecommunications and the adaptive sports community, united in their mission to champion and uplift the U.S. Para Ski and Snowboard Team.

Adaptive Spirit stands as a shining example of the incredible impact that can be made when industries unite around shared values—especially inclusivity and equal opportunity. By supporting adaptive athletes, the event promotes a world where limitations don’t restrict potential, perfectly mirroring Cisco’s Purpose: to power an inclusive future for everyone.

Spencer Wood: A Story of Grit and Passion
As someone who’s deeply passionate about skiing, I understand the dedication the sport demands. That’s why Spencer’s story deeply resonates with me. Born with hemiplegia on his right side, Spencer encountered challenges that could have easily held him back. Instead, he used those challenges as fuel. Through determination and an unbreakable spirit, he refined his abilities, defied expectations, and showed that limits exist only to be exceeded.

Behind Every Champion is a Team
When I first met Spencer, I was struck not only by his laser focus but also by the incredible support network behind him. His journey isn’t one he’s taken alone—it's been a collaborative effort involving coaches, trainers, friends, and family. Spencer himself put it best: “While it’s the athlete who crosses the finish line, the entire team is behind the victory.” It’s a powerful reminder that real success is built on teamwork.

This same belief is at the heart of our culture at Cisco. We call it “One Cisco”—a philosophy rooted in collaboration, innovation, and shared success. Just as Spencer draws strength from those around him, we too rely on each other to push boundaries and drive meaningful change together.

One of Spencer’s favorite quotes is from Ted Lasso: “Believe.” It’s a mantra that captures both his approach to life and the spirit of Cisco. That belief—that with the right mindset, anything is possible—drives us to empower communities, foster inclusion, and break through barriers with technology.

Aligning Values: Cisco, Spencer, and Adaptive Spirit
AS2025 is more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of determination, unity, and the refusal to be defined by limitations. It brings together athletes, industry leaders, and advocates who share a commitment to inclusion and perseverance—values that are deeply embedded in Cisco’s mission.

As Spencer gears up for this incredible event, I see the same hunger for excellence in him that I witness daily within the Cisco team. Whether it’s on the slopes or in the world of tech, that drive to innovate and challenge the norm is what brings us together.

Looking to the Future
We’re proud to stand with Spencer at AS2025, cheering him on as he continues to blaze new trails. His journey is proof of what can be achieved when passion meets perseverance—and Cisco is honored to be part of his story.

Here’s to Spencer, to the power of adaptive sports, and to building a future where obstacles are overcome, and potential knows no bounds.