Fourth down with six yards to go. Mountain Range’s offense surged forward towards the first down marker. Ryan Hassel stood between the running back and the first down; in a last-resort effort he dove to make the tackle: “Crack!” His shoulder pads smashed into the back’s thighs.

In this instant Ryan’s season was changed forever.

After a long off season of intense conditioning, Ryan’s season was cut short, one injury changed the game. The collision with the running back split his collarbone into two pieces. While talking with a specialist at Children’s Hospital, Ryan chuckled saying, “Wow… This sucks.” He found out he was going to be out for six months. This is the kind of news no person is prepared receive. However, Ryan is no ordinary Eagle.

In this instant he said he made a mental decision to stay positive, to persevere through this moment of adversity. “It is a simple choice,” he said. “Be a Debby-Downer or see the positive.” He chose the later of the two options. Although he is no longer the starting safety, Ryan still carries the team. He has taken on the position of team motivator: the team now plays for him. Ryan embodies the Eagle spirit because of his unrelenting drive to keep moving forward even when things get tough. Despite his injury he continues to carry out everyday activities and remains self sufficient. His grit is inspirational. Much love for the young man.