Luke Halsey, a senior, was an offensive tackle for the varsity football team. Unfortunately, Luke suffered from two occipital strokes that ended his football career. His coaches and teammates have helped him to remain confident and positive throughout this difficult time.
“My coaches are always there supporting me, and making football an even more enjoyable experience,” Luke said. “My teammates are even better, I love being around all the guys I’ve played football with since I was a kid.”
After his injury, Luke has not gained full sight back in his left eye. His doctors are unsure of whether the impairment caused by the strokes will heal or if Luke will fully recover his vision. Despite this, Luke is staying positive and trying to go back to the way his life was pre-stroke.
“I’m most proud that I am able to remain a leader even when the team is in a difficult situation,” Luke said.
Coach Clemmons, head football coach, selected Luke to be Athlete of the Week because of how impactful his story is and how well he has handled such hard events.
“I think he’s got a great story of ‘bad things happen to good people’,” Coach Clemmons said. “Even when it happened to him, he still chose to lead better than ever.”
Like every athlete, Luke has had his fair share of embarrassing moments on the field. One of which involved getting a penalty for mistaking one play for another.
“Last year there was a pass play that has the same name as one of our run plays. I thought we were doing the run play where I was supposed to go down the field, but it was the pass play. Since an offensive lineman isn’t supposed to run down the field, I got a penalty,” Luke shared.
His coach is extremely proud of how Luke has shown leadership even through a time when it could feel impossible to lead. By being the president of DECA, th captain of the football team, and a great student academically, Luke has brought inspiration to many people.
“He is still being a leader.” Coach Clemmons said.
