USA Deaf Volleyball 2025 Tokyo Deaflympics

Aloha friends, family, beach volleyball lovers, and supporters of the Deaf communities and those with physical impairments,

We’re reaching out to share an inspiring story—one of perseverance, passion, and purpose.

Michael Haggerty of Maui has been selected to represent Team USA in 2-on-2 Beach Volleyball at the 2025 Deaflympics in Tokyo!

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity not just for Michael, but for the island of Maui and the Deaf community he proudly represents.

Michael is a devoted father of three, a lifelong athlete, and a survivor of many obstacles. His life story is one of strength and perseverance. Growing up, he endured numerous personal traumas and throughout his life. Through it all, he coped by refusing to give up on himself—channeling his energy into sports like surfing, diving, and, most

importantly, beach volleyball.

As a child and teen, Michael suffered several traumatic injuries. On top of that, he began to lose his hearing at age 12. In 7th grade, a wrestling accident caused major hearing loss in one ear. Years of surfing cold water led to “surfer’s ear,” and by 17, he developed chronic tinnitus—a constant ringing in the ears that still affects him daily. Today, he wears hearing aids to better connect with the world around him.

Through it all, one thing remained steady—his love for beach volleyball.

He discovered the sport at age 12, and it quickly became more than a hobby. It became therapy. A refuge. A lifeline. And now, it has become the bridge to his dream: to stand on the world stage and play for Team USA at the Deaflympics.

Now living on Maui, Michael wants to use this platform to do more than just play. He sees it as a chance to turn his passion into a greater purpose—by bringing awareness to the Deaf community and others living with debilitating conditions. Michael hopes to lead by example, showing that setbacks can turn into opportunities—and a way to inspire others.

We’re raising funds to support Michael’s journey, including:

• Travel and lodging for training and competition

• Entry fees for tournaments and events

• Athletic equipment and volleyball gear

• Basic living expenses during intensive training periods

The Deaflympics, which began in 1924 in Paris, France, is the oldest international multi-sport event after the Olympics itself. However, unlike the Olympics, the Deaflympics does not receive the same level of funding or institutional support. As a result, athletes must organize their own fundraisers to cover the costs of training, travel, and competition—making every donation truly meaningful.

Every donation brings Michael one step closer to Tokyo. Whether you give $10, $100, or simply help spread the word, your support fuels a story of resilience, determination, and aloha.

Let’s lift Michael up and help him carry the spirit of Maui and the Deaf community to the world stage.

Together, we can help him bring home pride, purpose—and maybe even gold.

Mahalo for your generosity and support.

~written by lc, a close friend of Mike.