Tag Archive for: recovery

CALL OF DUTY; BELL WINS BOWLING GREEN’S MEDAL OF HONOR

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BOWLING GREEN, OH-  In a recent episode of YSN’s podcast, host DJ Yokley sat down with Logan Bell, the 2024 Medal of Honor recipient and Medal of Excellence winner from Bowling Green State University. Bell, a standout athlete from Lisbon David Anderson High School known for shattering records and later taking his talents to the baseball diamond, opened up about his journey, the essence of teamwork, and his aspirations for the future.

Bell’s commitment to excellence both on and off the field was recognized when he was awarded Bowling Green’s prestigious Medal of Honor. This accolade is not just a testament to his athletic prowess but also a nod to his leadership and community impact. Reflecting on the moment he found out about the award, Bell shared, “I’m very thankful to have been nominated and received the award, and I’m glad that I can represent BGSU in the way that it intends athletes to represent the school.”

Bell’s collegiate career was punctuated by significant challenges, including undergoing the harrowing experience of Tommy John surgery. “Relying on my parents and my faith to get me through those, that long summer and that long return to playing is kind of the biggest thing that has helped me,” stated Bell, emphasizing the support system that saw him through his trials.
He credits his never-give-up attitude to taking things one day at a time, focusing on each step of the recovery process rather than being overwhelmed by the road ahead.

Throughout the interview, Bell consistently highlighted the importance of being a good teammate, a philosophy he lives by. “It’s not about my accomplishments, it’s about the team’s accomplishments,” he profoundly iterated, reinforcing the message that individual recognition always takes a backseat to the collective success of his team.

Bell is no stranger to hardship. He discussed the numerous rejections he faced in high school, noting, “Pick out something that you see every day and write down your goals.” He added that resilience amid criticism is key – to see it as a means to enhance one’s capabilities instead of taking it personally.
As for his future, Bell is clear on his aspirations and pragmatic about the possible trajectories his baseball career could take. He spoke passionately about the prospect of winning a MAC championship and venturing into professional baseball. “Whether it takes me the next 20 years of my life or whether it takes me five years,” Bell mused, underlining his commitment to achieving what many only dream of.

Logan Bell’s story is one of resilience, dedication, and humility. Showcasing remarkable talent and a veteran’s poise, he serves as an embodiment of what it means to overcome adversity and emerge victorious. Bell exhibits the heart and hustle of a true champion, and according to DJ Yokley, he does it all while sporting a work-in-progress mustache.

In the world of collegiate athletics, where stars shine bright, Bell is undoubtedly one of the luminaries guiding the way for future generations.Bell’s story serves as an inspiration to young athletes everywhere — fight for your dreams, lean on your community, strive for excellence, and remember that the journey is every bit as significant as the destination.

I SPIES

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PEPPER PIKE, OH- Orange High School’s swimming team has found a hidden gem in senior student-athlete Avery Spies. Despite starting swimming as a casual whim during sophomore year, Spies has quickly risen to become one of the team’s key leaders, inspiring fellow swimmers with his relatability and unwavering support.

Spies admits that he shares a special connection with those who are new to the sport, having faced similar challenges himself. As someone who started swimming without much prior experience, Spies understands the difficulties and frustrations that come with learning the technical language and improving performance. By providing moral support and serving as a guiding figure, Spies establishes a strong bond with his teammates, encouraging them to stick with the sport and overcome the obstacles they face.

Jumping into the swimming scene late, Spies encountered his fair share of challenges. The aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic made his entry even more arduous. However, with determination and perseverance, Spies tackled the steep learning curve, gradually improving his times and techniques. Despite the initial struggles, he quickly adapted to the rigors of competitive swimming, demonstrating resilience and a willingness to push through difficult practices.

When asked about his mindset during races, Spies emphasizes the personal battle he faces in the pool – a war with his own thoughts. Overcoming negative thinking and self-doubt, Spies remains locked in and focused, relishing the feeling of triumph over his inner demons after each practice. His mental strength and ability to stay motivated have become invaluable assets in his swimming journey.

Spies’s favorite events are the middle-distance sprints, particularly the 100-meter and 200-meter freestyle races. While acknowledging the immense pain and struggles that come with these events, he appreciates the intensity and the opportunity to witness the difference made during the final meters. He thrives on the challenge, embracing the physical and mental endurance required to excel in these races.

Beyond the pool, Spies draws inspiration from his parents, especially his father, who overcame significant adversity in his own life. Having lost his parents at a young age and growing up with limited resources, Spies’s father serves as a constant reminder that anything is possible through hard work and determination.

As a senior leader in the Orange High School swimming team, Spies reflects on his personal growth and evolution over the years. He attributes his improved perspective to his newfound ability to think long-term, recognizing that daily practices may seem insignificant, but their cumulative impact leads to measurable changes and growth in the sport. This broader perspective has allowed him to appreciate the journey and the transformative power of dedication and consistency.

With his exceptional leadership qualities and unwavering commitment to growth, Avery Spies is not only making waves in the pool but also leaving a lasting impact on his teammates and the Orange High School community. As his senior year progresses, all eyes are on Spies, eager to witness his continued success and the positive influence he brings to the sport he loves.

 

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LUKE-WARM RECEPTION

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CANFIELD, OH-  In today’s episode, we have a special guest joining us, none other than Luke Starkey from the South Range High School football team.

Luke’s journey has been filled with ups and downs, starting with a devastating injury that left him sidelined last year. But through perseverance and unwavering support from his family, Luke has made a remarkable comeback.

As we dive into his story, we’ll explore the challenges he faced during his recovery, the motivation that fueled him, and the defining moments that made him the player he is today. Join us as we get a glimpse into the life of Luke Starkey, a rising star on the South Range team.

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