teen spotlight
photography by Lauren Childs
stats
17, Senior at Saint James School
notable
Varsity Wrestling Team; 2013 AHSAA Wrestling State
Champion; SGA President; Robotics Team; Varsity Football
Team; Mr. Saint James
motto
James’ motto? “The grind never stops!”
his story
As a member of both the Varsity Wrestling Team and Varsity
Football Team, James displays a great deal of athletic talent. He
has been awarded with titles at two statewide wrestling competitions, and has even been honored with being on WSFA’s
Football Team of the Week in 2014.
In addition to showing extreme athletic skill, James regularly
takes part in school activities such as the Student Government
Association and the Fellowship of Christian Students. He takes
his responsibilities seriously and practices excellent time management, juggling his roles as SGA President, athlete, and Alabama Student Foundation Ambassador. On top of his athletic
and academic endeavors, James gives back to his community
and volunteers at MANE and the Montgomery Zoo.
what’s next
James isn’t sure what he wants to do in the future, but he does
know that he wants to be remembered as “a person who cared
and a person who gave 100% to everyone (he) came in contact
with.”
PG (parental guidance) rating
James really appreciates the love and sacrifice his family has
made for him; they have encouraged him to achieve so much
in his life so far. His parents have always taught him to “stay
strong in (his) faith and put God first.” The best advice he has
received comes from his father: “Do what you love, and love
what you do!”
james kelly
Montgomery, AL
parents’ perspective
James’ parents appreciate his “strong drive and determination to
reach his set goals. He has beat all the odds that have been stacked
against him.” James’ mom, Shandra, supports James in all he does,
stating, “Whatever he chooses to do in life, I’ll be behind him.”
parent-to-parent
Shandra offers this advice : “Keep God first, and reach
for your goals. Never let the hard times determine your
future.” She thinks other parents should let their children
choose their own direction in their life, and then support the
decisions they make.
L26 |
Summer 2016
www.potentialmagazine.com