Olivia

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

Sports gives her an outlet to challenge herself and prove what she is capable of. Basketball taught her to overcome frustration when things didn’t go her way, while running taught her consistency. Martial arts taught her the most, helping her control anger and grow mentally strong. She loves accomplishing what once seemed out of reach, reminding her of true strength. She loved mentoring younger kids in basketball and now in martial arts knowing how much it means to have someone believe in you.

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

The people who doubted her inspire her most. Everyone who said she wasn’t good enough gave her a reason to keep going. Whether it was a coach saying she was incapable or opportunities disappearing, those setbacks pushed her to work harder. They made her question herself, but ultimately taught her to believe in herself. She doesn’t want to prove them wrong; she wants to prove to herself that their opinions are and will never be a deciding factor for her future!

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

My proudest moment was watching my daughter win two world championship divisions at the prestigious event - US Open ISKA World Martial Arts Championships. After countless losses in many sports, track, basketball, cross country, and coaches and principals not believing in her, she never gave up. Instead, she kept improving in every craft she tried until martial arts finally stuck. Her incredible resilience and refusal to quit is a testament as a role model to never give up!