My son, Ryan Konrath, in his final year at the University of North Dakota where he is majoring in commercial aviation.
He’s also #11 on the football team. Ryan did not get a scholarship to play football. He “walked on,” meaning that he might get financial help some day, but no guarantees. He had to prove himself first. He started as a quarterback, but after 2.5 years was moved to a wide receiver.
This fall, he finally earned a starting position! But in the first game against Texas Tech, he was injured. He spent 3 days in the hospital before he could come home. We thought his football career was over. So did he.
But then, in a follow-up visit to physician back in North Dakota, he learned he could play again, but he would not be “comfortable” due to the medical intervention. Three weeks later, he was back in the starting rotation and played every offensive play for the rest of the season.
At the awards banquet last week, he was voted by his teammates the Most Valuable Receiver*. He also won UND’s big award for the football player who generates great enthusiasm among squad members, works hard day after day, and is dedicated to the game of football.
Mission accomplished! He reached his unreachable goal and did it with a passion. You can too!
P.S. Now he’s looking for a job. If you know anyone/any airlines who’s looking for a pilot, please spread the word. He’s also looking for a sales position related to aviation.
* 2009 Fighting Sioux Most Valuable Award recipients http://bit.ly/c74bRW
Jill, thanks for sharing this motivational story. And congratulations to your son.
It reminds me of a quote attributed to Henry Ford:
“Whether you think you can or think you can’t – you are right.”