Normally it’s the athletes who have set, broken, or are on the cusp of accomplishing something sensational, who receive all the accolades from fans and aficionados. You can find pictures of them and articles about them all over the Internet with a quick Google search for their names. However, when possible, the everyday athletes who dedicate themselves to working hard and competing with integrity despite never claiming Gold or rewriting the record books should be acknowledged as well.
Brianna White, the 14 year old daughter of Stephanie White of Upper Marlboro Maryland, is one such person. She recently graduated with honors from Clinton Christian Middle School and runs with the Speed Tech Track Club (www.speedtechtrack.club). Playing video games like Rock Band, going to the movies, and writing are some of the activities she enjoys. She’s a member of her school’s liturgical dance troupe and earlier this year she somehow found a way to exceed her text messaging limits despite having unlimited text messaging. (The FBI is investigating.)
Her mother says, “I just want her to have fun and enjoy her child hood. She knows I support her no matter what she does. I especially like to see her participating in Track & Field. Through track she has made some great friendships, traveled to places she might never have gone, and experienced the camaraderie of being part of a team.”
Kent Green, her track coach, says she is a very bright, well rounded, and determined young lady. I like to think the things she’s learning on the track go far beyond the finish line of any race she runs. Concepts like the value of hard work, the importance of positive self esteem, and the benefits of living a healthy lifestyle will stay with her as she moves on in life. But while she’s here I’m honored for the opportunity to play a small part in her development as a person.
Competing in an age group that includes sensational sprinters like Kendall Baisden, Aaliyah Brown, and Charisma Green, Brianna knows the odds are against her ever receiving the acclaim they have but sometimes the journey is more important than the destination.
And so far…her journey has been amazing!
Thanks To Coach Kent Green for this special story.
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