Layne Mangum
Head Coach, Wheelin' Jazz
Member of Wheelin' Jazz since 1989
Member of Team USA for Spain Tour 1995
Paralympic Tryout for 1996 games in Atlanta
Recpient, American Fork Mayor's Commendaton Award
Profession: Owner Computer Repair and Sales Company

At age 21, I was diagnosed with Scoliosis, curvature of the spine. At the age of 28, I suffered an injury related to scoliosis that has left me with nerve damage and numbness in my lower back and legs. I live each day with pain and weakness in my lower back and legs. I was introduced to wheelchair sports by former LDS mission companion, Keith Barney. He introduced me to Mike Schlappi who convinced me to give wheelchair basketball a try.

I began playing wheelchair sports in 1989-90 and am one of only two original Wheelin' Jazz players. My jersey number is 32. I participated in the 1996 Paralympic Trials, 1995 Team USA Spain Tour, and two NWBA Final Four Championships. I have been selected to numerous All-Tournament Teams as well as MVP. I have had the honor to meet and compete against some of the finest athletes on the planet. I have accomplished more from my seat than I ever thought possible on my feet. What a thrill to take the floor on foreign soil wearing USA on my chest.

I am proud of my teammates as we strive to make a difference in the lives of not only the disabled community but everybody we come in contact with. We impact a lot of people through school assemblies, exhibition games, public speaking, and visits to hospitals and rehab centers. We estimate that we have been in front of no less than 500,000 school children with an uplifting, inspiring, and emotional presentation. We share our experiences and teach tolerance and acceptance of those that are different.

I am now involved in introducing wheelchair sports to the newly injured and others with birth defects. I am organizing the Junior Wheelin' Jazz as well as a development adult team which will feed into our highly competitive team for years to come. I serve on the Salt Lake County Adaptive board which funds sports programs for over 130,000 disabled persons in Salt Lake County. I am very blessed and feel rewarded every day that I can help change the life of a new athlete that may have felt that, not only was their sporting life over, but life in general.

I have been married since 1984 and have 5 AWESOME children. I own a computer repair and sales company.