Swim With Mike

After an accident paralyzed him from the chest down, this former USC swimmer opted to give back to others like himself.

? Year in review: From the first USC Pac-12 title in women’s lacrosse to four NCAA championship runners-up, Trojans made their presence felt across the collegiate sporting world.

The annual USC event gives students with disabilities an opportunity to compete in organized sports.

A diving accident in high school left Zachary Pickett paralyzed just as he reached his prime. But that didn’t stop the Swim With Mike scholarship recipient from pursuing his athletic passions.

A spinal cord injury in high school left Zack Wentz paralyzed. He turned that misfortune into a passion for breaking down barriers for himself and fellow Trojans with disabilities.

Kristina Ripatti’s life was upended after being shot while chasing down a robbery suspect. Now she forges a new identity in social work at USC, with help from a Swim With Mike scholarship.

Hundreds of students have benefited from USC’s 38-year-old initiative. This year’s annual fundraiser kicks off Friday.