Andrea Macri Carrying the Flame Inspiring a Nation The Heart and Soul of Italy Para Ice Hockey

（By May Zhao)Andrea Macri, a four-time Paralympian with the Italian Para Ice Hockey team and also serving as vice-captain, laughed when recalling his experience receiving the Winter Paralympic flame in Mandeville. He said it was not only a tremendous honor but felt like being handed a VIP pass in the world of sports, making him so happy he could almost “fly.” What made it even more exciting was that he would carry the flame all the way back to Italy, bringing the passion home.

As he prepares to compete in his fifth Paralympic Games, he admits that compared to his first time on the field, he is now more confident and more aware of the responsibilities: “The Paralympics are not just about competition; they carry the hopes of children and the entire Italian nation. As athletes, every message we convey must be positive, meaningful, and able to inspire the next generation.”

When asked about the pressure and motivation of being vice-captain for the host team, Andrea humorously said, “We can’t compare ourselves to the US or Canada, but we are a team full of positive energy, and we respect every jersey we wear. As long as we give everything on the ice, we can leave the audience with unforgettable moments.”

As for the iconic moment he most wants to leave behind at this Winter Paralympics, he didn’t hesitate: emotions. Joy, tears, and fiery passion—if the audience feels these powerful emotions, that is the greatest success and the memory he most wants to preserve.