Applying for the Prepared for Life (PFL) Scholarship has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. I am honored for the opportunity to represent the Lutzie foundation and be among the other worthy recipients. I approached this process unsure of what I may learn and how I could connect my life to the legacy of Philip. Through it I discovered a journey of growth, reflection, and connection not only in my own path as a student athlete, but also to Philip’s Legacy. Winning this scholarship is an honor that inspires me to carry Philip’s legacy forward every single day.
Philip’s story is one that resonates deeply with me. Although I was never able to meet him personally, I have grown up learning about his legacy at Lassiter, and I feel a profound connection to him every time I step on the field. I have been playing lacrosse for Lassiter my whole life, and every practice and home game we play on Lutzie Field. Since I completed the Safeguarding Your Legacy curriculum, I have been able to realize that I am not just playing to honor myself or my team, I am playing for the Legacy that Philip left at Lassiter. His commitment and passion for his sport and relationships with others are qualities that I strive to embody as I continue to pursue my athletic and academic goals. For me this scholarship was about more the just recognition – It was about carrying forward a Legacy that I am proud of and one that I want others to be able to look up too.
One important lesson I learned throughout this application process was how important it is to take time before you get behind the wheel and begin to drive. There are many distracted driving crashes each day and this can change your whole life in just a few seconds. I took the 43 Key Second Pledge not only to ensure my safety on the road but also to take care of others and not put other drivers at risk. This pledge represents taking a few moments to make intentional choices built on accountability and respect for others. When I take these 43 Key Seconds, it allows me to make sure my only focus is the road and not any outside factors which can save lives and protect my future.
Another valuable lesson I took from this curriculum was the importance of self-reflection. I was encouraged to analyze my strengths and weaknesses, consider how I respond when I am under pressure, and think about the teammate and leader that I would like to be. As an athlete preparing to make the transition to college lacrosse, this was very meaningful. Competing at a higher-level next year will bring many new challenges, but using the skills that I learned through Philip’s legacy has helped prepare myself for the changes I will face.
Ultimately, the PFL Scholarship process has been a huge reminder that growth doesn’t only come from success on the field; it comes from reflection, effort and the willingness to learn from the legacies left before us. Philip’s Legacy lives in every player that comes through Lassiter, and I am proud to play my part and spread the lessons that he taught me.
I am incredibly honored to have this opportunity to be welcomed into this foundation and to be able to work with members of Philip’s family. My experience volunteering at the Lutzie 43 Foundation Adapted PE Field Days and running in the Lutzie 43 Foundation Road Race has allowed me to learn more about the Legacy that Philip was able to leave for others. Learning about Philip’s life in the curriculum influenced me to change the way I think about leadership and build a legacy that I want others to look up too because I was able to learn that character and leadership are built in small and intentional moments.
As I finish high school and prepare to take the next step in my journey at James Madison University to play D1 lacrosse, I will carry out the lessons of the Lutzie 43 Foudnation. I am committed to honoring Philip’s legacy by making intentional choices, supporting my teammates, and striving for excellence not only on the field but also in my everyday life off the field. The Lutzie 43 Foundation has changed many people’s lives, including mine, and I am grateful for the opportunity to pay it forward.