Finding leadership in a sophomore is not something a coach expects to see. Newcastle cross country coach Jerald Lewis found an inspiring student-athlete in Paul Porter, who also leads by example.
The start of a cross country race can be hectic. Everyone lined up in a massive group. Some wanting to jump out early and fast, while others set their own pace and filter out into the course. At a recent meet, one of the Newcastle runners was tripped and ran over at the start, forcing a restart. Coach Lewis said Porter was there to help his teammate.
“At one of our XC meets this season we had a kid get tripped and ran over. They had to restart the race. He was very visibly upset. All of his teammates were encouraging him, but Paul took it a step further and grabbed his face and comforted him. He encouraged him, calmed him down and motivated him for the restart,” said Lewis.
That type of leadership from a sophomore is rare. But, if you know Porter, you know it’s who he is.
“Paul is daily motivating and encouraging his teammates. He leads by example and enjoys pouring into our Middle School XC Program. Those kids love him,” said Lewis.
Porter also plays soccer and is involved in his local church. In his spare time, he is creating something in the art world, making videos for his church or trying to find the newest and coolest pair of shoes.
“As a coach, he is one of those kids you look forward to seeing every day at practice,” said Lewis.
