3 days ago
'It could have been a lot worse': University of Iowa cheerleader Austin Beam back on court after serious neck and shoulder injury
University of Iowa cheerleader Austin Beam back on court after serious neck and shoulder injury (Image via Getty)
Austin Beam, a cheerleader at the University of Iowa in Iowa, had spooked luck on January 21, 2025, during basketball practice. Against Carver-Hawkeye Arena's University of Minnesota Gophers, the game was.
While having a timeout, Beam was doing back handsprings over the court when he tripped and landed on his shoulder and neck. He was knocked out in three to five minutes. Paramedics hurried to his rescue and wheeled him away on a stretcher, wearing a neck brace. Later, doctors determined he had a severe concussion as well as a broken shoulder blade. Beam was back cheering during March Madness, even with the injury; he had put a great deal of effort into recovery.
Austin Beam recovers after falling on neck during Iowa basketball game
Austin Beam has been doing gymnastics since he was nine years old. He joined the University of Iowa cheerleading team as a freshman. Beam quickly became one of the best tumblers on the team.
Head Coach Gregg Niemiec said Beam's experience helped him avoid a worse injury.
'He's hardworking, focused and an all-around talent,' Niemiec said. 'Being an established tumbler, he tucked and rolled at the right time to avoid something worse.'
After the fall, Beam stayed home with his parents for a week to rest. His concussion and broken shoulder made even small movements painful. Slowly, he began physical therapy. First, he worked on moving his shoulder. Then, he built strength in the muscles around it. Beam said
, 'As soon as I was able to, I wanted to get back. I feel very lucky, it could have been a lot worse.'
Austin Beam also credits his team and coaches for helping him return. Assistant Coach Ashley Stahr said
, 'Our safety drills and emergency plans helped a lot.
Being prepared makes a big difference.'
His teammate Jenna Francois added,
'It was a scary moment, but seeing Austin back is amazing. He is so strong.'
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University of Iowa cheerleader
Austin Beam works hard to return for senior year
Austin Beam is now ready for his senior year at the University of Iowa. He has been practicing stunts and working out with teammates all summer. He said football season is one of his favorites because of the excitement at games. Beam explained, 'Mistakes happen, and you can get hurt. You just have to get back up and keep going.'
From a frightening fall to a strong comeback, Austin Beam's story shows his courage and determination. He is back on the court, doing what he loves, and ready to make the most of his final year cheering for the University of Iowa.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
