When Josh Ratusny transferred to Lawrence Technological University in 2023, he wasn’t just looking for a campus. He was looking for a challenge — a university where he could push himself in the classroom and on the volleyball court.
At LTU, he found both.
In the lab, he dives headfirst into his passion for Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering Technology. On the court, he elevates the level of competition of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) in men’s volleyball, challenging himself against some of the nation’s best.
Now, just two years later as a senior, Ratusny is preparing for the ultimate challenge: He’s representing the United States as a member of the USA Deaf National Volleyball Team at the 2025 Deaflympics in Tokyo, Japan Nov. 15-26.
“It was pure excitement when I found out,” Ratusny wrote in response to interview questions. “It gave me the opportunity to represent both the Deaf community and the United States. Playing for the red, white, and blue carries a much greater weight. It’s about pride, responsibility, and showing what the Deaf community is capable of on a global stage.”
During his time with the Blue Devils, Ratusny helped lead LTU to two WHAC tournament titles, a regular season championship, and two trips to the NAIA Nationals.
“The key was the strong team bond,” he wrote. “The team feels like my family, where we always support each other. Our chemistry was at its best when we worked as one.”
That family-first mentality helped Ratusny grow from an “inexperienced collegiate player” into an upperclassman who mentors younger hitters and guides them on their own journeys.
Ratusny’s growth as an athlete mirrors his growth as a person. He credits LTU’s trainers for helping him transform his body athletically, while the structured schedule taught him to balance rigorous academics with high-level athletics.
But it was the early mornings and shared struggles with teammates that taught him about leadership and resilience.
“We all shared leadership through a growth mindset,” he wrote. “One of our biggest challenges was maintaining mental energy during early practices. We relied on each other to stay motivated and rise together.”
As a Deaf athlete, Ratusny has faced unique challenges — from communication barriers to limited resources — but those challenges have also shaped his identity.
Competing at the Deaflympics is a turning point.
“The people are incredibly kind and respectful, and I felt welcomed right away,” Ratusny wrote. “Culturally, it is amazing, and competitively, it is my first international stage. I feel pressure, excitement, frustration, and, above all, joy. That’s why Japan has become my favorite country.”
Joining the USA Deaf Team gives him something he had long sought: a community of athletes who understood his journey.
“Being surrounded by teammates who face the same challenges has inspired me to push harder and embrace my identity with pride,” he wrote.
With the Deaflympics fast approaching, Ratusny’s focus is clear.
“My mindset heading into the Deaflympics is to win a medal for the USA,” he wrote. “I’m preparing physically by improving my vertical jump, staying in top shape, and practicing with LTU for one more semester. Mentally, I’m focused on energy, confidence, and giving 110%.”
Beyond Tokyo, he is exploring opportunities to play professional volleyball overseas, pursue coaching, potentially at Gallaudet University, or even establish a volleyball camp for Deaf youth.
“My advice to young Deaf athletes is to never let being Deaf limit your dreams,” Ratusny wrote. “Work hard, stay dedicated, and believe in yourself. Your unique perspective can become your greatest strength.”
As he prepares for the Deaflympics, Ratusny is also raising support through his GoFundMe campaign.
“Any contribution, big or small, will help me reach the international stage, where I can proudly represent both the Deaf community and the United States,” he wrote.
When asked what he hopes people think when they hear his name five years from now, his answer is simple yet powerful: “I hope they think of someone who was hardworking, passionate, and resilient. An athlete who gave 110% and inspired others, especially within the Deaf community, to pursue their dreams.”
At LTU and beyond, that legacy has already begun.
“Being named to Team USA is an incredible honor, and Josh has earned it through his talent, work ethic, and character,” said Ben Campman, assistant coach, USA Deaf National Volleyball Team. “Josh is one of our best players. He raises the level of everyone around him with his passion, intelligence, and humility. He is an outstanding athlete, and a dedicated, hardworking, resilient, inspiring, and exceptional young man.”