Chrysi Morfi Metzou

Started: She began competing in boccia in 2012. "When I retired [from competitive Para swimming], I went to the Agios Chrysophoros Disabled Sports Association of Peania [in Greece], but as soon as I got hold of the balls I was in for a shock. I felt helpless. The sport was difficult and I had no inclination for it. I wanted to leave as I did. But I quickly changed my mind. Since I mentally liked boccia, I said, 'Sit down and listen to what your body says'." (meallamatia.gr, 06 May 2021) Reason: She practised non-Para swimming and gymnastics before her physical condition deteriorated due to muscular dystrophy. She then took up therapeutic horse riding and Para swimming before switching to boccia. "Me and my sister, through my father who was an amateur athlete, had a relationship with sports. He infected us with the bug. I had seen boccia at the 2004 Paralympic Games, through a TV show and it immediately caught my interest." (meallamatia.gr, 06 May 2021)