Everyone has that one athlete who they really look up to. The person who at one point in their athletic career provided inspiration. For me, this person was Jackie Joyner-Kersee, and I got the chance to interview her.
I ventured down to East St. Louis to go to the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Center. This is a place where children in the community can come and hang out, play sports and do their homework center. They put a lot of work into making sure that each child feels welcome and special.
I got to ask her a lot of questions that I have been wondering about for a long time, like which medal she won means the most to her. I mean, she does have six of them! We also talked about the importance of mental toughness in sports. Jackie has dealt with her fair share of setbacks, but because of mental strength, she has been able to overcome them. Jackie also puts a huge emphasis on setting goals and encourages each child to do the same. She has set goals for herself her whole life - and look where she is now!
We finished the day by joining a dance class in the gymnasium. Jackie was having so much fun and was smiling the whole time! The girls loved having her around and she did a great job of motivating them. I was still a little sore from my SPARQ training, so Jackie even held my hand and helped me with one of the stretches!
I will never forget this day. I feel so lucky to have had the chance to hang out with one of my athletic idols!
-Brittany
age: 22city: OMAHA, NESelected from countless girls, Brittany impressed us the most. Athleticism. Charisma. Sports-savvy. She has it all - including the Nike contract.
