I always wanted to step on the mat when I was younger, but dad made me wait till I was old enough,” she said in a very matter of fact yet sure tone – a tone that reflects her own strength of character that is an inspiration whether you are 14, 41, or 94. Those are the words of 14-year-old Katelyn Bouyssou, currently the youngest U.S. player to go to the Senior World Championships.

How did Bouyssou manage to get as far as she has in a sport like Judo? Two things are a definite: dedicated parents and staunch determination.

From a swim meet, Elizabeth Beisel sent an email, “I am so sorry . . . I hope this helps!” Even during ongoing competitions, Beisel was true to her word. It seems her external championships in swimming were reflective of her internal qualities as a human being.

Part of her dedication comes from the example of her parents. Beisel shared with me her gratitude for their support. “The amount that they have done for me is absolutely amazing. I practice up in Attleboro, Massachusetts and coming from North Kingstown that is a 45-minute drive every night for just one trip. Up until a few weeks ago, they were driving me but I just recently got my license so in a way me driving myself up there every night is a way my parents get to relax and enjoy time together. I can not imagine doing what they have done for me and it is incredible the amount of support and love they have for me whether I swim well or poorly.”