Samuel

What do they love most about playing their sport(s)?

What Sam loves the most about playing his sports are the challenges they present. Learning to overcome difficulties in sports training and competition has taught Sam lessons that are just as valuable out of the sports world as they are in it. My son has learned to be disciplined and driven in every aspect of his life. He has to efficiently manage his time because of the sports he plays. Sports has taught Sam to believe in himself through hard times and to never give up.

Who inspires them—on or off the field—and why?

When I asked Sam who inspires him, he immediately pointed to me. I am Sam’s Mom, Kristin. When I tearfully asked him why, he said I have overcome a lot in my life. He said it makes him want to persevere. My sister died last year. She was a huge supporter of Sam’s athletics and a big presence in our lives. It has been incredibly difficult learning to navigate the world without her. I am so incredibly proud my son sees me embrace sadness without defeat. I hope he remembers that lesson forever.

What’s one moment in their athletic journey that makes you proudest?

The moment in Sam’s athletic journey that makes me the most proud is when he played on his school’s basketball team. Sam was a talented club player and could have easily had every single point in all the games. Instead, he made it his mission to help his teammates learn to love basketball. He taught them and encouraged them. I will never forget the feeling when parents told me their sons were inspired to play because of my child. Sports are so much more than just skill and Sam exemplifies that.