Sports Illustrated remans the authority on which figures in sports had the most prolific year in their respective fields of play. The 2013 recipient, Peyton Manning not only served as an example of perseverance but also excellence in his new role as the quarterback of the Denver Broncos.
While the big boys are celebrated for late game comebacks and dominating performances, Sports Illustrated for Kids recognizes the younger student-athletes who overcome some tough life obstacles. Below are videos of the two last recipients. First, is Jack Wellman, the 2013 winner, who found a way to give back to a sport he loved when he could no longer play. But also served as a beacon of hope for an entire community when the unthinkable happened.
Below his video is the 2012 winners, brothers Cayden and Conner Long who compete as a team in triathlons together. Cayden, the younger of the two, has cerebral palsy but with the help of his big brother, doesn’t let that stop him from experiencing the normalcy and triumphs of sports. At the end of the second video, Miami Heat star LeBron James has a special message for the Long brothers.