Meet Davi Keynes-Levinson, a 15-year-old disabled swimmer with a heart full of dreams and an unbreakable spirit. Diagnosed with Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease, a neuromuscular disorder that affects the muscles in her legs and feet, Davi’s journey in the water is anything but ordinary. While her peers rely on kicks to propel through the pool, Davi’s lower body often “goes along for the ride,” leaving her to depend on her incredible upper body strength to keep up.
Her passion for swimming began at a young age, inspired by her sister, but it wasn’t until joining Joe Flaherty’s Dolphins that Davi’s swimming dreams truly took shape. Despite the challenges her disability presents, Davi trains with relentless determination. What keeps her going? The community surrounding her, from teammates to coaches, and the knowledge that every stroke is strengthening her body.
A key figure in Davi’s journey is her coach, Sarah, or as she’s affectionately known, “Mergoddess.” Sarah has been instrumental in Davi’s progress, using a variety of techniques to help her excel in the water. One of their most trusted tools? Dual Boards. From using the full set for balance and strength training to honing specific skills with a single board, these tools have been a game-changer in Davi’s development as a competitive swimmer.
The Dual Boards allow Davi to focus on building her upper body strength while giving her the stability she needs during challenging drills. Through hard work, dedication, and innovative training techniques, Davi continues to push boundaries, proving that even the toughest obstacles can’t stop her from achieving her dreams.
Davi’s story is a powerful reminder that the right support and tools can turn any challenge into a stepping stone. As she trains for the biggest competitions in the world, Davi is proof that perseverance, coupled with the right equipment, can help make even the biggest dreams come true.