"I have been running for almost ten years and I have had the privilege to transform a sport into an outlet and enjoyable space of which I look forward to doing each day."

"I maintain a healthy lifestyle by being active at least 5 days per week; whether that is practicing, lifting weights, etc. To go along with that, a healthy diet goes a long way. So eating protein, fruits, vegetables, and drinking water it very important. My advice for conditioning and personal training is to find someone to work out with and push you but who is also pushing themselves as well. Sportsmanship is very important because if you want to be respected, you have to respect others. On the field, you can show sportsmanship by shaking the other teams hand, and off the field you can be there for your teammates."

Davidson College

"I have been playing softball for about 12 years and it has made an incredible impact on my life and me as a person. I have made life long friendships with teammates and skills to help me throughout the rest of my life. Softball has taught me how to work as a team, work under pressure, and push myself to accomplish things I never thought possible. Growing up playing softball, I always felt like I could be better than where I was, like I was second best. After years of hard work (and still working), I have won a state championship, received college offers, and made friends who supported me through it all. Because of my amazing parents, teammates, and coaches I have been able to reach goals I never thought I could. My goal as a S4TK Ambassador is to help give the kids, who are less fortunate financially, the same opportunities I have been given."

"I maintain a healthy lifestyle by being active at least 5 days per week; whether that is practicing, lifting weights, etc. To go along with that, a healthy diet goes a long way. So eating protein, fruits, vegetables, and drinking water it very important. My advice for conditioning and personal training is to find someone to work out with and push you but who is also pushing themselves as well. Sportsmanship is very important because if you want to be respected, you have to respect others. On the field, you can show sportsmanship by shaking the other teams hand, and off the field you can be there for your teammates."

University of North Georgia Aug 2022

You have to believe in yourself when no one else does

"Being a female athlete means showing the world that strength, smarts, and spirit can all fit into one unstoppable package. To every young girl out there: dream big, train hard, study harder, and never lose the fire that makes you you. Success isn’t about being perfect — it’s about loving the grind, laughing through the struggles, and believing you’re meant to shine. Keep chasing it, keep smiling, and trust me — you’re building something amazing.”

"To me, sports are extremely important for kids to get involved in because it allows kids from any background to come together and learn a lot from one another. It also teaches kids the importance of hard work, discipline, teamwork and many more important life skills at a young age. For some kids, sports can be life changing the way it has been for me. After getting severe third degree burns on both my hands at just 2 years old I was very shy and embarrassed to hang around other kids outside of school. Participating in sports was a way for me to meet other kids and be more social. Sports has blessed me with many lifelong relationships, connections for a career after sports, a free degree from a top 10 university and now an opportunity to play in the NFL."

Fact value

“I have played sports since I was 4 years old. I’ve played baseball, basketball, and now I have committed solely to football. Through sports, I have become acquainted with individuals from many different areas. I love that sports has expanded my circle of friends. My teammates are some of my very best friends and my coaches have become my mentors. I value the opportunity to work as a team for a common goal. It makes me want to be a better person, a better leader, and a more determined, yet respected player.”

“God has given me a gift. Because of this, I make it a priority to take care of my body by eating right and regularly working out. At school, I give my teachers the respect they deserve, and I keep my grades in top shape not only to stay eligible for playing, but also because I value the importance of being educated.”

"Always prioritize your mental and physical health—without it, true success isn’t possible. It’s easy to get caught up in the demands of sports, school, and life, but stay focused on your goals. Remember, confidence and cockiness are not the same. Just as being humble doesn’t mean lacking confidence. Honorable athletes strive to improve and master their craft while staying grounded and respectful in their journey."

" I’ve always taken pride in being a leader on my volleyball teams. Volleyball is more than just a hobby—it's a passion I’ve dedicated my life to. I want to inspire younger athletes to stay motivated, push through tough times, and keep working toward their goals, because in the end, the effort is always worth it."

Saran has traveled across the country competing in elite gymnastics meets, earning multiple state, regional, and national medals. He credits his success not only to his hard work and talent, but also to the support of his family, coaches, and friends. Their belief in him has been a driving force through every high and low of his journey. “As you grow up, you begin to understand that the people who are willing to invest their time into you are the ones that truly care.”

Gymnastics has shaped Saran beyond the mat—it has taught him resilience, discipline, leadership, and purpose. His sport led him to discover the U.S. Naval Academy, where he will continue his academic and athletic career while preparing to serve as a commissioned officer. He encourages others to seek a purpose bigger than themselves and to find meaning in service to others. “I full-heartedly believe that the Naval Academy will not only make me the best all-around version of myself, but also grant me the privilege to serve in something that is much greater than who I am.”

"I never knew the impact soccer would have on my life. It wasn’t until high school that I realized I can play in college if I work hard. Injuries throughout the way tried to bring me down but I stayed resilient in my dreams. I want to other kids to be able to chase their dreams and to experience the joy playing sports can come with."

"I maintain a healthy lifestyle by exercising daily and eating healthy. I also get plenty of sleep. My biggest training tip is to drink lots of water, stretch, and have fun. I practice sportsmanship by making sure someone is ok if they get hurt and shaking hands after a match."

Stetson University