My Uncle Trev: A Beacon of Leadership and Inspiration by Thelonius

My Uncle Trev: A Beacon of Leadership and Inspiration by Thelonius - May 2024 Scholarship Essay

Leadership, to me, encompasses the ability to inspire others towards a common goal and help others bring out the best in themselves. It involves setting a positive example, and making decisions that benefit the collective well-being, even at the sacrifice of himself. A true leader works behind the scenes with full dedication and commitment, even when no one else has it. Without leadership, from oneself or another, no one can bring out the best within themselves.

One individual who has exemplified leadership in my life is my AAU club coach, Trevor. From the very first phone call, it was evident that he was more than just a coach; he was a mentor and a role model. Trevor had an unwavering belief in the potential of each athlete at a time when most others didn't see it. He went above and beyond to nurture our growth, both in the sport and personally. He sacrificed the potential he had as a coach, to train professionals, to instead put his all into us. He yells at us often, often for not realizing our full potential, for not being consistent in the work we do, or for not running hard and to our potential. One of his most common phrases: "how lucky am I to have 8 Olympians fall right into my lap." His unwavering belief in us, his compassion, and his inspiration are just a few of the key attributes that make Coach Trev Uncle Trev.

I met Trev in my senior year of high school with one goal in mind. To get a scholarship at a collegiate institution. In the process, I was broken down and forced to see the worst parts of the sport. Waking up at 5 in the morning, 9 mile runs, and practices that same night. There were times I ran until I physically couldn't no more. There were times I woke up and sat in the bathroom at 4 in the morning crying because I couldn't take the anguish that came with the discipline of track and field. Through it all, it was because of Trev I persevered. It was because of Trev, I can say that I have the discipline and the work ethic to do anything I put my mind to and inspire my peers to do the same. Trev often reminded us of the sacrifices he makes for the sport, so far as to losing his vision because he rather pay for meets than for his own health. He reminds me of the wholehearted commitment I need towards any goal set in mind. In the end, I managed to get the scholarship and drop almost 20 seconds in the 800 meter dash.

Overall, Unc Trev's leadership left a lasting impact on me, not only helping me become a better athlete but also inspired me to become a more compassionate and effective leader in my own right, even as I write this essay. His dedication to his athletes and his unwavering belief in their potential serve as a constant reminder of the transformative power of true leadership and I hope that you feel inspired to go and accomplish what you set your heart on with the full commitment of Uncle Trev.