In our community our youth deal with so much stigma with outcomes which are dangerous--bullying. Kaitlynn went through that at her elementary school and of course this makes her nervous. Walking into the gym it was comfortable to me. The kids were all playing together, I could see they were comfortable in their settings. The school was inviting and the adults were involved with the kids. It was very positive, I was feeling better, however Kaitlynn was so scared though...she was pail as a ghost I could of sworn she was going to pass out.
She observed for awhile getting the feeling of everything. I asked maybe if this one gentlemen out with the kids might be ok with encouraging kaitlynn to get out there. The TALL guy came over and introduced himself as Jamal Shueler, he is a professional basketball player. He talked to kaitlynn and brought her out on the court to help her be more comfortable. She agreed to go out there with him.
Jamal Shuler-Played for Woodard in 2000
Now plays professional Ball
It is amazing to me that this was arranged and organized by the school and this man came back to where he started to give these youth a day they'll never forget. The principle was there on the court and was extremely involved with these youth. As a parent going into new territory I was extremely impressed with his involvement. After awhile Kaitlynn became more comfortable and was having fun. Her face was lite up to be standing by these older girls and watching them to learn how to do the drills.
He did some one on one coaching with Kaitlynn, they watched a video on his skills and then they did drills and played some ball. My point to my post is this man didn't know my daughter or any of these kids for that matter. He travelled to give these youth some encouragement and motivation in this sport. And he did just that. On the court with them coaching the youth and giving them high fives.
During the clinic there were competitions and the kids were loving it. Winners of each different drill/competition were winning prizes, basketball arm sleeves. He brought them and handed them to the youth personally after each win.
In the end I noticed that he was walking towards Kailtynn, he had 1 sleeve left he said this was for the most special and bravest player, and he gave it to kaitlynn.
Now you know I was in instant tears after I saw her just shine! This man took the time to go out of his way to help her feel better and shine like a super star. Even after giving this to her he walked with her and walked with her giving her more advice.
I have never in my life been more impressed by an individual. This man didn't have to do this for her but he did, he gave time to her. He has made it big and carries his head proud but he is a very humble man. I am SO very proud of our brave daughter for getting out there!
Let it be known, if Kailtynn starts playing ball and continues through her years, it won't because I got up at 7am to take her to the clinic or because her dad and I support her and travel with her. It'll be because this ONE man took the time to encourage and motivate a youth he didn't even know.
Now that's an AMERICAN HERO~!
Hundreds of tears were shed by the mother through these moments!
