Andrew “Andy” Butterworth grew up in Grain Valley, Missouri, where he attended Grain Valley High School and became a member of the school’s inaugural wrestling team in 1995. He graduated from Grain Valley High School in 1998.

Andy began his wrestling career on the junior varsity before earning a varsity spot during his junior and senior seasons. As a senior, he earned All-Conference honors while helping Grain Valley capture consecutive conference championships during his final two years. Wrestling was only one part of Andy’s high school experience. He was also a four-year football player and spent four years as a member of the school band.

Following his junior year of high school, Andy enlisted in the United States Army. After graduating from Grain Valley High School, he began his military service and spent the next several years serving his country. By 2004, Andy had risen to the rank of Sergeant and was in his seventh year of service when his vehicle was struck by a rocket-propelled grenade.

The attack left Andy with life-altering injuries, including a traumatic brain injury, tinnitus, significant injury to his right hand, and the amputation of his left leg. After numerous surgeries and an extensive rehabilitation, Andy returned to civilian life in April 2005.

Andy approached his new challenges with the same determination and perseverance that had characterized his wrestling career. He initially went to work for an electric company and later joined the North Carolina National Guard, where he became a featured speaker at various events, sharing his experiences and encouraging others.

Andy subsequently worked with the Wounded Warrior Project before eventually returning to Missouri, where he most recently served with the Missouri Parks Department.

His commitment to athletics and helping others also continued through adaptive sports. Andy has been both a participant and coach with Midwest Adaptive Sports, taking part in wheelchair softball and basketball. Through adaptive athletics, he has continued to demonstrate the teamwork, resilience, and competitive spirit that were such important parts of his life as a young athlete.

Today, Andy and his wife, Julia, are raising their three young children. He looks forward to coaching his children as they participate in sports and hopes to pursue officiating in the future.