teen spotlight
photography by Nikki P.
stats
17, Senior at Benjamin Russell High School
notable
Varsity Football and Baseball
Troy’s Top 120 player
All-Outlook team participant for 2 years
his story
Caleb started playing baseball when he was three years old. “I
love sports. I love competing and watching spots on TV,” he
said. He gives credit to his dad for being with him every day and
providing the most inspiration in his life. “Even though he is hard
on me, he makes me a better player and wants me to be the best I
can be every day.”
Caleb excels in both academics and athletics. He’s an honor
student at Benjamin Russell High and has considered majoring
in accounting because he’s pretty good at math. Caleb also plays
varsity baseball and varsity football. He helps with fundraisers
through the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Caleb even got
picked by his local newspaper to participate in the All-Outlook
team for two years. The Outlook team is where the top 120
players in Alabama are chosen to play games in front of baseball
scouts in Troy. Caleb holds onto Tim Tebow’s words: “hard work
out-does talent when talent doesn’t work hard.”
After graduation, Caleb wants to “play baseball as long as I
can and then be a successful person and be a great husband and
father.” He wants to go on to major in communications and be a
sports broadcaster and, “hopefully make my way up to ESPN.”
PG (parental guidance) rating
Caleb’s parents have always taught him to work hard and be
himself, and they’ve always
been behind his efforts.
“I’m proud that my parents
support what I chose to do
and make sure I have all the
opportunities I need. They
sacrifice their life to help me
in mine, and I appreciate it.”
caleb brooks
Alexander City, Ala.
parents’ perspective
Richy and Debbie Brooks have taught Caleb to find his passion
and embrace it. “Ever since he was a little boy, Caleb has done
everything with 110 percent of his energy, enthusiasm and with
passion. He is a go-getter and has always been a natural leader.”
Lately, Caleb’s dad has played the biggest role in helping him
reach his potential since he wears the hat of both father and coach.
parent-to-parent
“As an educator, I believe that all young people have special talents.
Sometimes those talents are not what parents dream for their
children. I think that the happiest kids grow up in homes
where their parents value, appreciate, recognize and nurture
their unique potential through encouragement, allowing for
failure and teaching work ethic.” -Debbie Brooks
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www.potentialmagazine.com