U.S. Embassy Yerevan Hosts Wheelchair Basketball Sports Envoys Rose Hollermann and Steve Serio

The U.S. Embassy in Yerevan is pleased to announce the arrival of U.S. Sports Envoys Rose Hollermann and Steve Serio, two of America's most decorated wheelchair basketball athletes, for a program in Armenia from June 15-17, as part of the Department of State's Sports Envoy Program, administered by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.  Their visit highlights the growing partnership between the United States and Armenia and a shared commitment to athletic excellence, youth empowerment, and people-to-people exchange.  This event is part of Freedom 250 — our year-long celebration of 250 years of American independence. 

Hollermann, a four-time Paralympian and multi-medalist, and Serio, a five-time Paralympian and three-time gold medalist, will engage with Armenian youth and athletes with disabilities through workshops, masterclasses, and community events in Yerevan and Gyumri. Program highlights include a public wheelchair basketball demonstration game at Freedom Square on June 17, open to the public.

The program is organized in partnership with the Wheelchair Basketball Federation of Armenia, led by Hovhannes Khzmalyan, Yerevan Municipality, AYB School, Shengavit Sports Center, and Shirak State University.

"Sports have a unique power to bring people together, break down barriers, and inspire the next generation," said U.S. Embassy’s Cultural Attaché Nathan Austin.  "Rose and Steve embody the best of American excellence and resilience. We are proud to welcome them to Armenia and to share their stories with Armenian youth and athletes.

The U.S. Department of State's Sports Envoy Program sends American athletes and coaches abroad as cultural ambassadors to promote mutual understanding, strengthen bilateral ties, and inspire communities around the world.

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