John Watson '20 Recruiting Profile

In the 17 young years of my life, I’ve experienced some life changing events that taught me to either soar or surrender. I chose to soar. If the claims of my parents prove to be true, then their words of me being ‘destined for greatness’ , and ‘Triumphant Man’, these are the lessons I will teach my children.  

My biggest challenge was a health trauma I experienced in middle school.  I was twelve years old and I set out on a trip to Orlando, Florida with my best friend and family for the summer. Unfortunately, after about 9 days, I had a drastic change in my health. Before I knew it   day out in the summer heat, turned into my parents joining me on my vacation in the hospital. I don't remember much about the whole thing, but apparently, there is a low survival rate bacterial meningitis and with fully functioning limbs and abilities. It was a life-changing experience for the entire family and as a result my school community, family, church community and the entire supportive village were very involved in the restoration of my health and safety were prioritized.  Fortunately and miraculously, with determination, love and modern medicine I lived. It was a triumph, but not without post traumatic stress. I endured scars in my head as a result of the many surgeries and I was the only one in my class that had to learn how to walk twice. Through it all my parents pushed me, they wouldn't allow me to sit around and feel sorry for myself, nor would they let me forget my talents. They were determined to find a sport or hobby with the least amount of head contact.