The TAC proudly announces that Liberty Tucker from White River High School is a Clay Huntington Sports Communication Scholarship recipient. Liberty wrote, “Sports have always played a huge role in my life, and one of the most important things they have taught me is the importance of teamwork and communication. I grew up watching sports constantly; it felt like the only channel on our TV was ESPN. I am inspired by how they can unite us all; it is a common ground for all people. However, it was not until my freshman year that I realized just how essential sports would be to me for the rest of my life. I tried out for a club fast-pitch team my freshman year, and that is when everything started to click for me. I finally understood what it meant to be an athlete and to devote yourself to the game. The sound of a solid line drive coming off the bat or the smell of fresh grass stains after you dive to snatch a pop fly are the things I dream about every night. As my time as a high school athlete comes to an end, I have done a lot of reflecting, and I have realized I do not want sports to stop being a part of my life. I plan to attend Baylor University next Fall, and as of right now, my plan is to major in Journalism and eventually and a career in sports journalism.” “Sports unite people. It does not matter your race, religion, sexuality, or gender to bond over sports. Sports allow people from all over to have common ground. Whether it is a “Sic “Em Bears” while passing a stranger on a sidewalk or meeting the only Seattle Seahawks bar in San Francisco, sports unite all in spite of all the odds. That is why I want to be a sports journalist. I plan to turn my journalism career into something positive that will help people realize they have things in common and give them something to hope for to make the world better. There is so much negativity in our society, and I hope that I can help others create friendships and their passion, and give people hope with my writing. Sports have changed my life for the better, and I hope through my writing that I can help change others’ lives through sports.” Her teacher, Lori Curtis, wrote, “Liberty is also a student with a heart for other human beings and other students. She is a high-achieving student with excellent grades and well-rounded involvement - ASB officer, athlete, and other school leadership. However, what sets her apart is her social personableness, interest, and drive to work with and mentor students younger than her.” Liberty was an outstanding softball player and cheerleader at White River High School.