Zoey

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

Zoey loves the feeling she gets when it’s game time. She may be shy off the field, but when she steps onto the field or court, she “puts on her cape” and becomes fearless. She loves competing, being part of a team, learning new skills and challenging herself to get better. Whether it’s flag football, basketball, soccer or baseball, she loves the excitement of the game and the confidence sports bring out in her.

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

Her dad is one of her biggest inspirations. He taught her that no matter how shy or nervous she may feel, be a dog!! When it’s time to compete, she has to “put on her cape” and believe in herself. Those words have become part of who she is as an athlete. He reminds her to be confident, play hard, trust herself and never be afraid of the moment. She carries that lesson with her every time she steps onto a field or court.

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

At 10, Zoey was invited to play up with a 6th–8th grade flag football team against boys ages 11–13. Despite being one of the smallest on the field, she scored 3 touchdowns—including a pick-six—and a 2-point conversion. On that conversion, she disappeared behind the much taller players, then came out with the catch! Her coach turned to the families in disbelief and said, “She’s 10!” Watching her fearlessly compete and prove she belonged made me incredibly proud.