The 2026 Boccia Nationals in Council Bluffs, Iowa brought together athletes from across the country for four days of high‑level competition from July 30 to August 2. Among the standout performers was Charlie Fleisch, representing the Nassau Thunderbolts of CP Nassau, who earned two silver medals—one in individual play and one in pairs.
Fleisch competed in the BC3 class and demonstrated the focus and consistency that defined his career. With support from Thunderbolts Assistant Coach and BC3 coach Troy McPherson, and ramp assistant Will Lowry, he entered Nationals prepared for the pressure of elite play.
His individual matches were marked by strategic ramp placement, controlled rolls, and steady composure. A close semifinal win secured his place in the final, where he earned the silver medal after a hard‑fought match.
In pairs, Fleisch teamed with Jimmy Miranda of Ohio representing the Boccia Bros. Although this was their third year competing together, the pair showed the communication and coordination of a long‑established team. Their run included a dramatic comeback that energized the crowd and carried them into the medal round. They finished with a well‑earned silver.
The Nassau Thunderbolts had a strong overall showing at Nationals:
- Brian Zacritas earned a silver medal in his class.
- Rafael DeJesus also captured a silver medal.
- Danny Dalton and Keith Haarmann, both alumni of the Henry Viscardi School, played competitive matches throughout the tournament.
- Cara Liebowitz delivered determined play in her division.
- Ryan Torchinsky, competing in his first Nationals, showed promise as a future contender.
“I am extremely proud of how well the Nassau Thunderbolts competitive Boccia team played at USA Boccia Nationals in Council Bluffs, Iowa this year,” said Thunderbolts Head Coach Mary C. Hodge. “Each athlete trained hard this past season and played with good decisions and from a good mental place having practiced their mental performance skills. I hope the team enjoys a few weeks of rest and then we will be back to train to work on areas that need to be executed better.”
Fleisch’s double‑silver performance highlights the dedication of CP Nassau’s Life Options Program and the commitment of the Thunderbolts to advancing adaptive sports. His achievements, followed by supporters watching from New York and beyond, reflect the growing visibility of boccia and the strength of athletes who compete in it.
Nationals 2026 will be remembered as a milestone for Fleisch and a point of pride for the Thunderbolts community.