WASHINGTON – Two and a half years after a cross-country journey, Georgetown Athletics Hall of Fame member Janne Kouri (B'97) is at it again. On Wednesday, he completes his Ride for Paralysis through the Georgetown gates once more, but this time from Boston to DC to support his non-profit NextStep Fitness.

As he completes this 520-mile trip his friends and supporters know it is with purpose that he does these rides.

A star defensive end at Georgetown from 1993-96 and 2018 Georgetown Athletics Hall of Fame inductee, Kouri set the program record for career sacks (31.5), a record that still stands today. In 2006, 10-years following a celebrated collegiate career that saw him named the 1996 MAAC Defensive Player of the Year, Kouri suffered an accident that fractured his C5 and C6 vertebrae, leaving him paralyzed from the neck down. Following his accident, Kouri founded NextStep Fitness, an internationally recognized non-profit that makes life-changing rehab and fitness accessible and affordable to individuals living with paralysis.

"Janne is one of those special people you hope you are blessed to meet in your lifetime," said Georgetown Head Football Coach Rob Sgarlata.  "He is a daily example of the true meaning of SISU as he continues to raise funds and awareness to aid those with paralysis.  This month's ride from Beantown to Gtown is just one example of his inspirational dedication as a 'Man for Others'.  We are proud to call Janne a member of the Hoya football family and welcome him and a number of fellow Hoyas home to the Hilltop this week." 

Kouri has thrived on his ability to make a difference and he hasn't forgotten his roots on the Hilltop. This will be the second ride concluding at Georgetown. Following his cross-country ride in 2019, he remarked on how much GU has meant to him.

"I never really considered ending the trip somewhere else. Georgetown was such an amazing experience for me, going to school there and playing football. Everyone at Georgetown, especially the alumni and the football program, have been so supportive of Susan and me since my injury and I could not imagine ending it anywhere else."

With this journey almost complete, the rides will not as Kouri continues to work to give people with paralysis access to innovative rehabilitation. The current ride's is more than 75 percent to its fundraising goal. See the links for more information on the ride or how to get involved.