Allan

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

My son loves the grind that comes with sport. He tells me that it's important that he push his boundaries, and get comfortable with the uncomfortable. I don't understand it, but it's what keeps him showing up. He also tells me that if he didn't do the sports, he just wouldn't be who he is. He'd rather live as a fish than live as somebody who couldn't swim. He loves it because it's an opportunity to challenge himself, and remind himself hard things aren't impossible.

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

His friends, when I ask him if any celebrities inspire him he says no, how they play does, but that doesn't hit the same as what his friends do. My son says that his peers inspire him to cut his own teeth at getting better. He says that- to have people who are willing to push you, then pull you back up is the most amazing thing ever. It makes every away game feel like home, every long sweaty day a trophy for the body. It makes the work worth it.

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

For me, I gravitate towards seeing a good first place or good grade. But honestly here- I have to say both. My son has been off the brakes this year, succeeding in both his classes and athletics. He's managed his time well enough to do what he loves while also keeping his future opportunities open and happy. One moment I'll always remember is when he beat his own personal best in a VHSL meet. He went from 24.78 in a 50 free for preliminaries to 23.89. My cheeks were sore from smiling.