Potential Magazine Fall 2015 - Florida Edition | Page 43

teen spotlight photography by Lauren Childs stats 15, 10th grade at Alabama Christian Academy notable AL USA Gymnastics-Athlete of the Year 2015; Presidential Fitness Award; Armory Athletics Men Team (Level 4-9); Carpenters for Christ Missions; Track; Chorus motto “You don’t have to be good at it when you start. You just have to start to be good.” how it began Garrett McDaniel has competed in gymnastics for about nine years. He has been named the Alabama USGA Athlete of the Year, Alabama State Champion, and consistently placed in the top three for several regional and statewide competitions. “I never knew at the age of six when I first walked into the Armory Gymnastics class how the sport would change my life,” said Garrett. “Building my confidence, my strength and determination, it helps me to not back down from things that look impossible and to put my all into the things I do.” Gymnastics isn’t the only activity Garrett puts his all into. When he’s not competing on the gym floor, he’s involved in ministry. For the last three years, Garrett has traveled to Louisiana and North Carolina to help build churches with his biggest inspiration, his dad. “It doesn’t matter where we are, my dad will ask total strangers (our waiter, the cashier, whoever): ‘Is there something we can pray about for you today?’ said Garrett. what’s next garrett mcdaniel In the future, Garrett sees himself specializing in sports medicine as a physical therapist and also coaching gymnastics. Montgomery, AL PG (parental guidance) rating With the support and influence of his parents, his youth minister, and his coach, Garrett has grown into the person he is today. A favorite piece of advice comes from his coach Eric Lewis: “If you do what you’ve always done, you’ll get what you’ve always gotten.” parents’ perspective Steven and Kim McDaniel admire their son Garrett’s positive attitude and dedication to constantly better himself daily, “even when things are hard.” “I’m his biggest cheerleader. I know he can do anything he sets his mind and heart to do,” said Kim. “He doesn’t give up.” parent-to-parent As parents, Steven and Kim McDaniel are both guided by the sacrificial love and support that came from their parents growing up. “The coolest thing was when my twin sister and I went to opposing colleges Auburn and Alabama. They [my parents] still shared their time, love and support to us both at each of our school choices. The two try to pass on that same love, encouragement and support to their children. They encourage other parents to believe in their children and “join in on the fun, be an active part of their lives, and pr