Nelya
Schasfoort

Athlete Bio#

Height

5'4"

Quick Facts

Personal: Born in Zaporizhia, Ukraine, Neyla Schasfoort developed Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita, a condition which made her lose complete function in both arms, at a young age. After being adopted at the age of two, Schasfoort’s parents began using swimming as a form of therapy. Her love for Swimming grew from there and quickly became her passion. Schasfoort has also dabbled in modeling, acting and miniature horse shows where she won 14 ribbons in her first year. In her spare time, she volunteers with the Church of the Open Door Food Bank, Pass it on Ministry and local Youth Challenge. With an eager interest in learning, the swimmer can speak Dutch and Papiamento, has studied piano and loves to spend the summer with her “Oma” in Holland. At the age of ten, Schasfoort made the U.S. CanAmerican roster. She also completed the challenged athlete triathlon and ranked second in the U.S. for the 50-meter backstroke, 100 backstroke, 50 fly and 100 fly in 2014. Her motto: Through hard work, perseverance and a faith in God, you can live your dreams (Benjamin Carson).