Meet Jack O’Neil
Graduating in 2025 from the University of Wyoming Honors College, Jack O’Neil holds a B.A. in journalism, specializing in sports broadcasting, with a minor in disability studies.
With a captivating life story of triumph over adversity, Jack created his own unique advocacy and leadership methods that he now utilizes as a keynote speaker. He expertly weaves his personal story into inspirational and practical actions that audience members can use to find success in their corporate, non-profit, or athletic careers.
Background
Born with a complicated set of birth defects that doctors claimed were “incompatible with longevity in life,” and childhood filled with surgeries and hospitalizations, Jack’s tenacious will to overcome adversity made it clear that he was destined for an extraordinary life.
At the age of 6, while recovering from a traumatic leg-salvaging procedure, Jack discovered the freedom and relaxation of swimming, paving the way for a life of athleticism, advocacy, and leadership.
The following years were a mix of swimming fun, dreams of running, and ongoing painful procedures. Jack was elated at the idea of swimming despite being disqualified from events and denied participation on teams. Through the strength and advocacy of his parents, private coaching, and his own determination, Jack was able to continue competitive swimming.
Oscar Pistorius, who at the time was making national news for running in the Olympics, not the Paralympics, on two prosthetic feet, inspired Jack and gave him the hope that prosthetics could make running possible. Jack asked his parents about amputating his leg, and just before his 10th birthday, the procedure was complete, but the road to recovery was a new challenge for Jack to overcome.
After being invited to a triathlon camp for children with disabilities and meeting Melissa Stockwell, one of America’s most celebrated disabled athletes, Jack became even more determined to compete. Melissa’s encouragement and vision for Jack made a lasting impression.
Advocacy and Leadership
Pushing the boundaries in youth sports, Jack learned how to advocate for himself in a unique way, while facing continued exclusion from teams and events, Jack paved a road for himself, competing against able-bodied competitors and gaining skills that would shepherd Jack’s unique leadership and teamwork style.
As an amputee, he qualified for championship meets under able-bodied time standards, cementing his commitment to inclusion and advocating for athletes with disabilities.
“I told Coach Dave I wanted to be a college swimmer on his team, but there was one caveat. I did not want to be his disabled swimmer. I wanted to be his college swimmer, who did every single workout as it was written and got treated with the same tough spirit that Dave brought to the pool deck every day. In reality, people with disabilities are extremely capable of competing in the NCAA.
At the end of the day, we are all athletes.”
Accomplishments
Jack made history when he became one of the first athletes with a disability to compete at the NCAA Division I level. His work ethic and leadership skills led him to be a two-time, unanimously elected team captain at the collegiate level.
NCAA Division I Swimmer
Team Captain of the University of Wyoming Men’s Swim Team
Team USA ParaSwimming National Team Member
Two-time PanAm Silver Medalist
US Paralympian
National Champion in Paraswimming
First Disabled Athlete to Compete at Youth and High School Nationals in Triathlon
Youngest Triathlete to Compete in the International Triathlon Circuit in 2019 (at the age of 16)
Personal Life
Born in North Carolina, raised in Illinois, and also growing up in Colorado, Jack has Midwestern values, a mountainous spirit, and a touch of Southern charm. Swimming, cycling, and playing sled hockey, Jack has a passion for all sports, athletes, and sports journalism.
Now a retired swimmer, he looks forward to his next chapter by hosting his podcast, golfing, skiing, and spending time with his family and dog.
Jack has had a life filled with challenges and setbacks, but he wouldn’t change any of it. He is thankful for the lessons he has learned and the character he has developed, and loves sharing and teaching the impactful lessons from his life with audiences around the world.