Introduce yourself(tell about yourself & who you are)

My name is Edward Collins. I’m 15 years old and I’m just finishing up my freshman year at Father Judge High School. When it comes to sports, I do baseball and track, and I’m going to try cross-country for my sophomore year. However, I mainly focus on track and field. I do sprinting, jumping, and mid-distance events. I have two caring parents and one crazy brother, but I still love him. I wouldn’t call myself a genius but I would say that I’m slightly above average when it comes to intelligence with an IQ of around 130. I’m a Christian and part Korean, Italian, and Irish.

What motivates you every day to keep pushing to the limit when it comes to sports?

I always look at the best of the best, including the best on my team, and I see how hard they work and how much they improve. Even some of the weaker kids on my team I notice work really hard, and they improve a lot. I’m not that strong myself, so seeing the best and seeing how much they work is what’s going to get me moving. They also support me when I’m struggling. I also have some great and supportive coaches. Even though they assign some real tough workouts, they always cheer us on while we’re running, even if we’re in the back of the pack. I’ve met some great people during my first year of high school that motivate me internationally and unintentionally, and that is something I am the truest grateful for.

What are some goals you have that you want to achieve?

I overall just want to have a successful life. The ultimate goal is to become the state champion in the triple jump, and I’m gonna work really hard TJ achieve that. I would also like to be an inspiration people look up to. If that doesn’t work out, then I’ll probably get a job and live a normal life. I would like a kind wife with around two kids. All in all, I just want to live happy and be an inspiration.

What is a message you’d like to give to others who want to do what you’re doing?

I would tell people that whether you want to go pro in a sport, start a business, etc. never let people talk you down. I’ve had many people tell me that I was not athletic enough to do track, but I just ignored them. When they found out I won my first medal, they said things like, “The people you were racing were slow,” but I’m pretty sure they were just jealous. Also, if you feel uncomfortable with the people you hang out with, then don’t be afraid to hand out with people you like and enjoy playing or taking with instead. Finally, just never give up and push yourself til you feel dead. If you’re an athlete, you’re not going to get stronger if you feel comfortable during a workout or practice. FEEL THE PAIN AND THE OUTCOME IS SATISFACTION.

What are some struggles you faced to be where you are now?

Many people have tried to put me down, saying that I’m not strong nor athletic. I’ve also gotten made fun of for some of my nationalities. Some of these things are still current, but I’m aiming to prove them wrong.

What is one way you’d like to make an impact in the world?

I want to tell everyone that it doesn’t matter where you start or how weak you are. Anyone can become a strong human being, physically and mentally.

Last question what else would yo line to tell the world about you?

I want to have the best and most enjoyable life possible. If that means that I have to push myself now, then so be it.