Team USA paintball player sacked over 'disgusting' Covid-19 video

A professional paintball player who has represented Team USA has been sacked after mocking a sick teenager with Covid-19.

Jessica Maiolo sparked outrage after posting a TikTok video saying a Miami teen needed a treadmill rather than a vaccine.

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Maiolo recorded herself in front of a news segment about 17-year-old David Espino, a high school student who was hospitalised for 10 days with the virus.

Espino can be seen laying in his hospital bed while his mother says she regrets not getting him vaccinated sooner.

“Ma’am, your kid does not need a Covid shot,” Maiolo said.

“Your kid needs a f***in’ treadmill. That's what he needs".

Maiolo was savaged on social media, with users labelling her comments “vile”, “cruel” and “disgusting”.

Team USA Paintball has since announced they's severed ties with Maiolo.

“Our investigation into the troubling conduct of Ms. Maiolo has been concluded and we have decided to remove her from the team indefinitely,” the team wrote in a statement posted on Instagram.

“Playing for Team USA Paintball means representing the sport at the highest level and being a leader both on and off the field.

"We are an eclectic mix of culture, opinions and ideas – and that’s what makes our sport so great.

"We cannot tear each other down, both within our community and out.

"We are hopeful that this will serve as a valuable lesson for anyone paying attention.”

Jessica Maiolo responds to backlash

Maiolo has previously expressed her views against vaccinations.

The 31-year has since responded to the furore, saying it was “never my intention to shame any individual.”

“What started out as me expressing my personal opinion about something I feel quite passionately about, has turned into a moment of regret for the situation I have put my teammates, our sponsors and the sport I love into,” she said in a statement.

“If I were to have such a moment again to convey my full thoughts, I would choose my words more carefully and consider how my opinions may affect others.

“As may be evident by the hobbies I have, I am a passionate individual.

"My fire is the same for paintball and fitness as it is for self advocacy and all of the things that make me proud to live where I do.

“I appreciate the opportunity to see this situation from the viewpoint of others, and to learn where I can do better and will. I hope that I may inspire others to realise the power of their words too.”

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