Potential Magazine Summer 2017 | Page 68

teen spotlight photography by Cindy Shaver Photography stats 17, Junior at Virgil I. Grissom High School notable Graphic Design Business Owner; Top 10% of Class; Varsity Basketball Team Member; Junior Civitan Club Officer; Special Needs Peer Leader quotable Phillip states, “I know that with God on my side, it doesn’t matter who is against me.” Therefore, his motto is: “I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.” his story Phillip is very involved in athletics at Virgil I. Grissom High School- he is a member of the basketball and baseball teams, and holds several awards in each sport. While in middle school, Phillip decided to combine his lifelong love of sports with his skills in graphic design, resulting in a brand new business. He began to make photo edits for family and friends, as well as design images of college and professional athletes. He has been commissioned by several professional athletes to create graph- ics for their social media pages. Recently, he worked with the University of South Florida football coach to create designs for displaying in the locker room. He shares, “My graphic design business makes me proud. I have made many contacts with college and professional athletes. I have formed some lasting friendships through my work.” what’s next “I want to play college basketball while pursuing a degree in either graphic design or engineering. After that, I would love to continue playing basketball professionally, but if not, I want to work in the sports world as a graphic designer- maybe design- ing logos for NBA teams, gym floors, and locker rooms.” phillip desrosier Huntsville AL PG (parental guidance) rating “My parents have truly been my inspiration. They have taught me the true definition of hard work through their actions. My mom played college basketball, and I want to follow in her footsteps.” parents’ perspective Chuck and Alicia express, “The thing we admire most about Phillip is his strong work ethic. He works extremely hard at everything, whether it is sports or academics. He strives to be the best that he can be.” parent-to-parent When asked what advice they would give to other par- ents to help their children reach their potential, Chuck and Alicia answered, “Children need to know that their parents believe in them. If your child knows that, we feel that the world in at their hands.” Teen Spotlights are eligible for a $500 Scholarship - Nomination forms at www.potentialmagazine.com/spotlights 28 | Summer 2017 www.potentialmagazine.com