Ryan

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

Jace loves the competition, the camaraderie, and knowing that he has an important role to play on his team. He enjoys challenging himself against other teams, but just as importantly, he values being part of something bigger than himself. Being on a team gives him a sense of belonging and lets him contribute his own strengths toward a shared goal.

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

His dad is a big inspiration because they share a love of basketball. Playing together gives Jace special time with his dad, and watching great players like Michael Jordan inspires him to learn and improve. His coaches motivate him and make him feel good about himself as a player. Their encouragement helps build his confidence and makes him want to keep working at the game.

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

One of the moments that made me the proudest of Jace was watching him play in a tournament where his team played really well and won the championship. The following month, they played in another tournament and didn’t have the same success. What made me most proud, was seeing that his love for basketball didn’t change. Whether his team wins or loses, Jace continues to enjoy playing, supporting his teammates, and giving his best. To me, that shows that basketball is about more than winning for him