For the last month, the United States Marine Corps have been recognizing outstanding high school athletes in the Tennessee Area through the “Fighting Spirit Contest.” This campaign was sponsored by the US Marine Corps and activated by BRAINBOX Immersive Marketing. Four nominees shared their stories of displaying exceptional leadership skills, community service or overcoming adversity while exemplifying the same Fighting Spirit that displayed by the United States Marine Corps. Their communities were encouraged to vote for them as the person who most represented the ideals of a fighting spirit, but only one winner was chosen as the “Fighting Spirit” Honor Recipient.
Saturday, after nearly 4,500 votes were cast across Tennessee and northern Alabama, Luke Maples from North Sand Mountain High School was named the winner. Mr. Maples will be given the Fighting Spirit Award as well as a $500 check.
"In a matter of six moths, Luke lost two grandparents and had to face the possibility of not being able to compete in the sport he loves. Luke could have easily given up after so many devastating things happening in such a short period of time, but Luke persevered and had an amazing junior year of basketball. Luke doesn't settle for anything less than his and his teammates' best," officials said.
“To me, having the Fighting Spirit is to always give 100 percent and never quit.” said Mr. Maples. “If my future goes as planned, I want to major in electrical instrumentation after graduation. I will use the $500 to help pay for college.