I used to be a biker...
Hello Community! I am Matteo Cattini, the captain of the Italian Para Powerlifting Team. I want to share my inspiring story with you. After a life-changing accident that left me with a disability, I found new hope and passion in para powerlifting. Despite facing discouraging feedback from doctors, I remained determined and turned to the gym for rehabilitation and empowerment. Para powerlifting, a challenging sport, became my outlet for resilience and positivity. My journey is a testament to the power of determination and a positive mindset in the face of adversity. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story with the Yoocan community and beyond, inspiring others with disabilities to pursue their passions. Join me in spreading motivation and positivity. Let's continue to inspire the disability community together. Follow my journey as I strive to make a difference through para powerlifting. Remember, with resilience and determination, you can overcome any challenge and achieve your dreams. Together, let's uplift and empower the disability community!
From the hospital, to Para Powerlifting, to Rio 2016 Paralympic Games
After spending over eight months in the hospital, I decided to go to the gym as a way to regain muscle tone. To my surprise, I discovered that I had a talent for it, and I soon began competing at a national level, winning my first titles. In 2012, I was invited to join the National Team, and I started traveling internationally for competitions. The highlight of my career came in 2016 when I received the call to represent Italy at the Rio Paralympic Games, a dream come true for any Para Athlete. Fast forward thirteen years, and I am now a dedicated athlete, devoting most of my time to training and competitions, while also working as an employee at the Italian Weightlifting Federation (FIPE). I am proud to contribute to my sports national federation and continue to pursue my passion for para powerlifting at the highest level. It has been an incredible journey, and I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences that have come my way through the world of sports.
Never Stop Exploring!
In addition to my passion for para powerlifting, I am also an avid traveler, thanks to my bionic leg that allows me to explore the world. I have been fortunate to visit various countries such as Jordan, Iceland, Norway, the United States, Greek Islands, Ireland, Finland, and my beautiful home country of Italy, with many more destinations on my bucket list. While traveling, I sometimes encounter curious stares from people, but I am often met with kind words of admiration for my spirit. While I am flattered, I also hope for a world where every amputee has the same opportunities to travel and explore without limitations. Unfortunately, this is not the current reality for everyone. I am optimistic that things will change in the near future, and communities like this one play an essential role in showcasing the capabilities of individuals with disabilities. We are capable of achieving anything we set our minds to, and I am proud to be a part of a community that inspires and promotes inclusivity. Let's continue to advocate for a more inclusive world where everyone has equal opportunities to pursue their passions and explore the wonders of our beautiful planet.
