athlete spotlight Archives - Athletes for Hope

AFH Athlete Spotlight: Brad & Ashley Stuver

Posted: August 20, 2024 Updated: August 20, 2024 by kReeves

Using the Power of Sport to Give Back, Together

Brad Stuver, a goalkeeper for Austin FC, and his wife Ashley Stuver, play a crucial role in the Austin, Texas community giving back through the Laundry Project, Equality Texas, and Avow. AFH is honored to spotlight Brad and Ashley as they explore their paths, achievements, and philanthropic efforts. While athletes at all levels of sport often contribute their time and energy to communities, what is unique about this amazing couple is their dedication to service, sport and others while cheering each other on in their respective causes.

Brad and Ashley Stuver pose together and smile at the camera.

Brad Stuver, the dynamic goalkeeper for Austin FC, has a deeply rooted connection to soccer that began early in his childhood. Inspired by his older brother Ryan, who introduced him to the sport, Brad’s love for soccer grew as he played in the yard, often as the target of playful shots. This early exposure set the stage for a lifelong passion. Although Brad explored other sports during his formative years, soccer was the one that consistently drew him back, becoming a central part of his life.

Professionally, Brad’s proudest achievement came with the 2022 season when Austin FC made the playoffs for the first time, marking a significant milestone in his career. This accomplishment was a testament to his skills, perseverance, and immense pride for himself and his wife, Ashley. The playoff berth symbolized a culmination of hard work and a shared dream coming to fruition, making it a particularly memorable achievement for Brad. Ashley Stuver also achieved remarkable milestones. Among her most notable achievements is earning a master’s degree in nutrition. While working full-time, pursuing this degree later in life posed significant challenges, but ultimately, completing the program was a proud moment for her. Brad’s philanthropic and community service efforts are all in part with Ashley, making them a hardworking team supporting the Austin and soccer community.

Both Brad and Ashley are deeply committed to giving back to their community, driven by a profound sense of gratitude for the support they’ve received throughout their lives. For Brad, playing soccer professionally is a dream realized, made possible by the communities that have supported him along the way. This gratitude has inspired him to use his platform to give back. Both Brad and Ashley particularly appreciate the vibrant and supportive community in Austin. The couple is motivated by the collective spirit of the city and has engaged in various charitable activities to contribute positively. Their commitment to community service is reflected in several impactful projects they’ve undertaken.

One of the most significant initiatives they’ve been involved in is the Laundry Project in Uvalde, organized in response to the tragic school shooting in 2022. This project provided essential services, including free laundry and school supplies, to the affected community. Partnering with the 4ATX Foundation, Austin FC’s nonprofit, Brad and Ashley were able to make a meaningful difference in a time of need. This project stands out as a poignant example of their dedication to using their platform for good.

Brad takes a selfie with others, including Ashley, in the background in front of a sign for the Laundry Project.

Brad and Ashley’s commitment to community service is rooted in their upbringing. Both come from families that emphasize the importance of being active and giving back to the community. This background has significantly influenced their approach to philanthropy. When they came together, they explored various causes to find those that resonated with their values and had the potential for long-term impact. Ashley’s introduction to the Laundry Project came through a high school friend’s husband, who was involved with the initiative. The idea of bringing the project to Columbus, where they previously lived, marked the beginning of their deeper involvement in community service. Upon moving to Austin, they were thrilled to see the Laundry Project take off and make a significant impact locally.

It wasn’t until they moved to Austin that Brad fully realized the extent of his social media reach and the impact of his platform. Meeting fans and hearing how his posts and interviews resonated with their lives underscored the influence he could wield. Brad’s ability to connect with people on a personal level and address important issues highlighted the power of using one’s platform responsibly.

Balancing a demanding professional schedule with community service requires careful planning. For Brad, managing his time effectively has become crucial, especially as he has taken on a more prominent role with Austin FC. Before joining Austin FC, he had more flexibility in his schedule, yet now, with the demands of being a consistent starter, careful planning is essential. Brad and Ashley work together to align their community activities with their game schedule, ensuring they can contribute meaningfully without compromising Brad’s performance on the field. It is truly a team effort.

A group of people posing for the camera, including Brad and Ashley Stuver

Among their various charitable endeavors, Brad cites the Uvalde Laundry Project as a favorite. The project, which provided essential services and school supplies to a community in crisis, was particularly impactful and rewarding.” For Ashley, the Stuver Social fundraiser, which supports organizations like Avow (where Ashley is on the board) and Equality Texas (where Brad is on the board), stands out.” Additionally, their tour of the Ronald McDonald House provided a powerful reminder of the vital work done by such organizations. Being able to connect with various causes and learn more about their efforts has been crucial.

Brad’s advice for other athletes looking to get involved in giving back is to recognize the power of their voice and platform, no matter the size. He emphasizes that even small actions can have a significant impact. By engaging with their communities and supporting causes, athletes can make a meaningful difference. Brad’s own experience with the Austin FC Verde Program, where he and other players interact with local kids, highlights how even simple acts of presence can be profoundly impactful.

Brad and Ashley Stuver and others at the Equality TX Gala

Looking ahead, Brad and Ashley are excited about launching their own nonprofit, the Brad and Ashley Stuver Foundation. This new venture aims to consolidate their philanthropic efforts and leverage their platform to support local nonprofits across Texas. The foundation represents a significant step in their commitment to giving back and reflects their ongoing dedication to making a positive impact on their community. Their commitment to service and others should serve as a strong example to other power sports couples looking to make a profound difference in communities.

Brad and Ashley Stuver’s story is a powerful example of how professional athletes can extend their influence beyond their sport. Through their career achievements and philanthropic efforts, they demonstrate the profound impact of using one’s platform to foster positive change and support those in need. Together, this dynamic team of two is creating long lasting change in the Austin community and beyond.

AFH Athlete Spotlight: Abby Dunkin, PLY

Posted: June 21, 2024 Updated: June 21, 2024 by kReeves

Championing Inclusivity and Advocacy with Paralympian Abby Dunkin

In 2013, amidst the digital passageways of YouTube, Abby Dunkin began an extraordinary journey fueled by the electrifying spectacle of the Team USA Women’s Wheelchair Basketball team at the 2012 London Paralympics. After witnessing their athleticism, Dunkin was captivated, resulting in a newfound passion for the sport. Hailing from a military family, Dunkin was introduced to wheelchair basketball for the first time at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas. Among military personnel adjusting to their new way of life after serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, she discovered the San Antonio ParaSport Spurs, an all-military team. Thus, she began a journey leading to her collegiate competition and the illustrious ranks of Team USA.

Reflecting on her illustrious career, Abby Dunkin says her Gold medal triumph at the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games in one of her proudest moments. Even more so, she cherishes the friendships woven across continents throughout her professional and collegiate levels, embodying the essence of sports companionship.

Abby and another Wheelchair Basketball athlete posing together with an American flag around their shoulders. They are inside an indoor gym.

All of the friendships I’ve been able to create from the sport around the globe, will always mean more than any gold medal.
Abby Dunkin, PLY

Transitioning from athlete to mentor, Dunkin is now a coach with the Rollin’ Hornets in Charlotte, North Carolina, where she dedicates herself to nurturing the next generation of wheelchair basketball talent. Through Abilities Unlimited, a non-profit organization, she empowers youths with disabilities, fostering a sense of belonging and independence through adaptive sports.

“It’s been so great being able to see the growth in our youth athletes and them having the realization that they can compete in athletics at a high level. Not only the kids, but also seeing the parents realize that their child has a place to compete with kids with similar abilities, and learn lessons to be independent.”
Abby Dunkin, PLY

Abby posing with a youth wheelchair basketball player.

Her impact extends far beyond the court as she continues to champion inclusivity and advocate for the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. During the 2016 Rio Paralympics, Abby Dunkin was one of the few openly LGBTQ+ athletes competing in the games. At the time, she shares that she did not fully grasp the significance of her visibility, but she has since embraced her role as an advocate. She aligns with organizations like Athlete Ally, using her platform to champion equality within and beyond the realm of sport. Even after retiring in 2020, Dunkin’s advocacy work for Athlete Ally continues, ensuring that her impact on young athletes resonates far beyond her competitive years. She still participates in recreational competitions as part of their women’s team based in Charlotte, North Carolina, furthering her commitment to inclusivity and LGBTQ+ rights.

For Dunkin, the essence of service lies in sharing her story at various sports events – whether on the court, in corporate events, or community gatherings. Through Athlete Ally and local engagements, Dunkin illuminates the power of inclusivity, with a profound desire to amplify the engagement in more events revolving around mental health, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and bringing awareness to adaptive sports, specifically in Charlotte, North Carolina. Her advocacy work is a beacon of empowerment, inspiring others to make a difference in their communities.

Dunkin offers a profound directive to those embarking on the path of advocacy: “Start by finding a local organization that you connect with and truly believe in, and reach out to see what the best way is to get involved.”

Looking ahead, Dunkin envisions a future where every individual, regardless of identity or ability, finds their rightful place in the arenas of sport. Her long-term goals encompass a steadfast commitment to LGBTQ+ rights, mental health advocacy, and the proliferation of adaptive sports—a testament to her dedication to a more inclusive world. After following Abby Dunkin’s journey, her unwavering commitment to advocacy and service inspires change and embodies the transformative power of sport as a breakthrough for social progress.

Abby Dunkin making a very athletic play while playing Wheelchair Basketball.

Abby Dunkin sitting on the ground of an indoor gym watching Team USA players compete in Wheelchair Basketball

AFH Paralympian Athlete Spotlight

Posted: March 20, 2024 Updated: March 20, 2024 by Hannah Bronkema

Skiing With A Purpose: An Adaptive Sports Dream Day

At the age of 9 Lacey Henderson was diagnosed with Synovial Sarcoma in her knee, a rare type of soft tissue cancer that would result in the amputation of her right leg. Despite her disability, she grew up an active child, and fast-forward some years later Lacey was competing in cheerleading throughout her high school and collegiate years.

It wasn’t until she received her Division 1 athletic scholarship from the University of Denver that Henderson would discover the “world of disability.” After competing in cheerleading, she was ready for a new challenge and took up track and field in 2012.

Lacey’s father, T.J., was a national decathlon champion who went to the Olympic trails for pole vaulting, so it is no surprise that as soon as Lacey picked up Track and Field her father would challenge her to try pole vaulting.

Photo of Paralympian Lacey Henderson smiling white holding the American flag behind her back.

Eventually, Henderson took her father up on his challenge, trying pole vaulting and instantly falling in love with the sport. Her love for pole vaulting coupled with resilience, determination, and hard work would earn her a spot on her first U.S. Paralympic Team four years later in Rio de Janeiro. What’s more, Henderson is a 9x U.S. National Champ, performing in both the long jump and 100m dash.

Aside from her athletic achievements, Henderson is a public speaker, model, Sport and Performance Psychology Professional, an advocate for disability, and, consequently, many intersectional communities.

Henderson has written numerous published works and has served in varying capacities in local government; however, she says that her most important accomplishment is sharing her experience and knowledge to empower and spread resources with those around her.

As an Athletes for Hope Athlete and Whole Being Ambassador, Henderson has participated in mental health conversations such as Mental Health in Parasports, joined other AFH staff members on a trip to Tanzania as a part of a Global Exchange Program, participated in several CHAMPS in-person and virtual visits, joined the Mental Health Champions Club where she shared how to reframe your anxiety, and more.

There seems to be no limit for Henderson when it comes to creating positive change and advocating for the things she believes in. For Henderson, those two worlds collided on March 4, 2024, when she spent the day with Dream on 3 and the Ignite Active Sports Team to help create a Dream Day for four children.

The Adaptive Ski Dream Day

Written by Katie Balint, Dream on 3

The cold day started with a warm welcome from Kevin and the Ignite Adaptive Sports team. Once the kids started arriving, instructors worked to get the kids in their skis and fitted, taking their time to ensure the kids were comfortable in foreign equipment and of course having fun along the way. Nervous smiles turned to pure joy as soon as each kid got on the snow!

Two of the participants, Miles and Lucy, were in sit skis, another participant, Jude, was putting skis on for the very first time and finally, the last participant and proficient skier, Bella, was working to fine-tune her ski skills. As each kid went off to their area to learn, it was exciting to see them each gain confidence as they mastered one level and then moved on to a bigger challenge.

Soon they were all zooming down the mountain with their instructors and not wanting to stop for a break! As evidence, Miles continuously said “again, again, again” as soon as he reached the group after one of his runs. Lucy came back down hitting the group with some snowballs and was excited to tell us about a tunnel that she and her instructors skied through. Jude was gaining his confidence and zig-zagging down like it wasn’t his first time on skis and Bella was cruising down with her instructors and the wind in her hair!

One of the many highlights of the day was being able to ski with Paralympian Lacey Henderson. A couple of the kids were wide-eyed when they were told Lacey was the Paralympic athlete there to hang out and ski with them, but all of their nerves being around a big-time athlete went out the window when they realized how awesome Lacey was. Her easy-going, fun-having attitude boosted the day, and she was a great role model for the kids to be around, encouraging them all along the way.

Lacey is very adventurous, she showed me that anything is possible no matter what shape or form. Lacey, Ignite, and Dream on 3, opened up a world I didn’t think I’d see again. I can’t wait to get back on the slopes!
Lucy, Dream Day Participant

Soaking in their runs together, Miles and Lucy were especially excited to show Lacey some of the spots they had found at the top of the mountain, where spectators couldn’t see. The day was a huge success and all the kids wanted to know when they could go skiing again.

From the outside, it was something special to see the kids’ faces light up when they realized that they could quite literally conquer the mountain in front of them and it was even more special connecting with and seeing the smiles that extended to the faces of parents.

As a parent of a child with an acquired disability, there were so many doors I thought would be so hard for her [Lucy] to enter. Starting over, learning everything again, seemed challenging, to say the least. Lucy is not one to shy away from physical challenges, but I knew we had a long road ahead of us. I know she can do anything she puts her mind to, so it was never a matter of if, but when. Connecting with Lacey, and having this opportunity, really showed her that it is even more possible than we realized. You gave her hope.
Jennifer, Dream Day Participant Lucy’s Mother

A couple of hours together and the sense of community and connection from strangers was so impactful. After hearing from a couple of the parents, who at one point, were questioning what the future looks like for the kids, they were so appreciative of being able to have the community that was on the mountain that day.

The ski day was so awesome and so fun! It was fun to even share the fitting experience, especially with the unique challenges that having a disability can bring with putting on ski gear. It was a blast having Lucy and her squad show me where the teepee on the mountain was, and ski along with them blasting Taylor Swift! I remember being young and not having any opportunity to see other adults with disabilities achieve anything from putting on a ski boot to flying down a mountain so it was a gift to be able to show and share that with our group on that perfect day!
Lacey Henderson, Paralympian

The day was indeed, a success, thanks to the amazing organizations and people that came together to make it happen.

AFH Olympic Athlete Spotlight

Posted: March 13, 2024 Updated: March 13, 2024 by Hannah Bronkema

Winning with a heart of gold

Star soccer forward and National Soccer Hall of Fame inductee Carin Jennings-Gabarra is more than just her accolades on the pitch. While she is known for being a part of the United States “Triple-Edged Sword” of attackers in its victory at the 1991 Women’s World Cup, it’s the time spent in her community that she cherishes the most.

Growing up with two older brothers who were “always playing sports” was the catalyst for Gabarra’s passion. She remembers falling in love with soccer in 1973, the very first time she played.

Back then, when girls were just getting the opportunity to play organized sport, it’s hard to fathom that Gabarra would go on to receive the first-ever Women’s World Cup Adidas Golden Ball Award as the best player at the 1991 FIFA Women’s World Cup or become an Olympic Gold Medalist.

In fact, it was at the Olympic Games in Atlanta that she realized how many athletes give back and “use the platform they have to be a voice for those who have no voice.” When she retired from the national team after the Olympic Games, she had 119 full international appearances and 56 goals, ranking her third of all time in caps and tied for third in goals.

Being an alumni of the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team, Gabarra has been surrounded by countless teammates and coaches who invest in their communities by giving back to those in need.

One such teammate is none other than AFH Founding Athlete Mia Hamm, who most recently was the inspriation and first recpient of the Athletes for Hope Inaugural Mia Hamm Founders Award at the 2023 Play for Good event. Gabarra celebrated with her teammate Mia and other USWNT Alumni at the event which aimed to raise funds for AFH’s programs.

Outside of the relationships she has bulit from her time playing professionally, Gabarra is giving back to the next generation of women’s soccer players through her love of coaching.

Her coaching career began in 1987 at Westmont College in Santa Barbara where she guided the Warriors to a 6-10-0 record as head coach. In 1988, Gabarra moved on to the Ivy League where she served as an assitant coach at Harvard.

In 1993 Gabarra arrived at Navy, building the Navy soccer program from the bottom level to, now, one of the Mid-Atlantic Region’s most competitive teams. Along with a long list of other coaching accolades, Gabarra joined an elite group of coaches when she won her 300th career game during the 2015 season, further staking her claim as the Patriot League’s all-time wins leader.

When looking towards the future of women and girls in soccer, Gabarra is passionate about leveling the playing field and making soccer an accessible and equitable sport for all.

“I want girls to follow their dreams, younger girls to play confidently and to feel like they’re accepted and that they’re athletes, not female athletes, and be able to compete and play at any level they choose.”

Despite her busy schedule, Gabarra says that community service must be a priority, noting that she has “truly loved each service project” she has been a part of. While she calims to have no favorites, she says she does have a passion for volunteering at soccer clinics within underserved communities.

For athletes who may be retired or just starting out on their philanthropy journey, Gabarra’s advice is simple.

“My advice to other athletes is to turn to organizations such as Athletes for Hope and utilize them to give back in various ways. There is always time to give back to the community. It must be a priority.”

AFH Athlete Spotlight

Posted: January 3, 2024 Updated: January 3, 2024 by Hannah Bronkema

Tennis player Ingrid Neel serves on and off court

Born in Oyster Bay, New York, professional tennis player Ingrid Neel is as passionate about serving on the court as she is about serving her community.

Ingrid Neel wearing sunglasses in all white tennis outfit with one foot in the air, hair in a ponytail swaying underneath a visor, on a tennis court after a follow through.

She remembers falling in love with the game of tennis at age 6 thanks to her first coach who made the experience fun. Through group competition with friends, it was the early years that would later solidify Neel as N0. 39 in the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) doubles rankings in October 2023.

As she grew older, finding ways to use her platform for a greater cause came with ease for Neel thanks to her role models.

“I always noticed how so many of the players I looked up to started their own charities and I knew that whenever I had the chance, I would want to give back as well.”

While she has won three doubles titles on the WTA Tour, three doubles titles on the WTA Challenger Tour with two singles and twelve doubles titles on the International Tennis Federation (ITF) Circuit, Neel says that she feels lucky to be in her current position.

“I am lucky to be one of a couple of hundred people in the world who have the opportunity to travel the world competing in this sport, so I’m not going to waste it.”

Ingrid Neal poses with her doubles partner Ulrikke Eikeri as they hold up their first place trophy between them. Both girls in white tank tops with blue bottoms.

And waste it she has not. Aside from competing at Wimbledon and the U.S. Open, her favorite tennis match is the one for a good cause.

“My favorite community service project that I was able to be a part of was the Pine Tree Apple Tennis Classic for children’s cancer research. I was a kid myself when I raised money and played in the event and it hit me how fortunate a position I was in, it meant a lot to be able to contribute to a cause like that.”

The pressures of being a professional athlete don’t ease up, however, Neel still finds time to engage in community causes.

Similarly to the Pine Tree Apple Tennis Classic, Neel says many of her opportunities to serve are closely related to tournament tennis activities because she is often on the road.

As she looks to continue to compete on the WTA Tour, Neel knows that when she does retire she will use her time to give back to others.

Ingrid Neel smiles next to Isis Gill at the 2022 U.S. Open.

“Wherever I settle down after my tennis career, I hope that I can be involved in the community, helping kids pursue their passion for sports to use as a vessel for school and lifelong happiness,” exclaimed Neel.

Neel may seem to have a natural ability to weave together service and sport; however, for other athletes who want to incorporate the two, she offers some advice- start small.

“So many people want to hear your story and look up to you as inspiration,” Neel said. “Any chance you have to help others, no matter how big or small, will mean a great deal to someone.”

Mental Health Athlete Spotlight

Posted: November 1, 2023 Updated: November 1, 2023 by Hannah Bronkema

Overcoming the mental battle

As an athlete, injuries are the risk you take to play the sport you love. The physical side of recovery is exhausting and physically challenging, but even more so mentally. I saw the lowest of lows when recovering from knee surgery, something no one could have prepared me for. It felt like there was no light at the end of the tunnel.

No one seems to talk about how the little victories are the most rewarding when they deal with recovery. I was so close to calling it quits multiple times, but I was a competitor and would not let a brace and crutches stop me from chasing my dreams. I sat on the sidelines as I watched my teammates succeed. But I failed to realize that I was finding success that related to my journey, not anyone else.

I was unprepared for what to do when my mind got the best of me, and the negative thoughts came pouring in at a rate that was faster than I could control.

There was no rule book on how to handle relearning how to walk when my brain said, “Just do it, it shouldn’t be that hard.” time and time again. I was unaware of how to adjust to the new player I was when I stepped back onto the field. I was ecstatic to get back to playing, only to step on the field and want to hang up the cleats for good because I had been losing the mental fight.

I was not the player I was, and I was expecting to be when I returned because I had pushed my body so hard for nine months; that I physically felt ready. I had failed to prepare my mind. My mind was still in month four or five of recovery by the time I got the green light to play. I stepped on the field and let the mind game control me, and it showed.

As athletes, our minds go 100 miles a minute, just like their bodies. We spend more time in our heads than on the playing field. There is no excuse for not being taught how to train our minds before our bodies. I am a college athlete and still am unable to keep my mental game as sharp as my physical game. It can be exhausting, challenging, and degrading at times, but as an athlete, I know that athletics has taught me more than I could ever learn, so why give up? At what cost is it too much? Athletes deserve so much more than what they have received.

We have the tools to succeed physically, but many lack the tools to succeed mentally. The mental health of athletes is a conversation that needs to happen more often than it does. Many of us grew up playing sports for one thing, the love of the game.

The love of the game should not have to fade as we start to play at a higher competition.

The game will bring out the greatest; and sometimes the worst in each athlete. Remember when the worst comes because it will, that it does not last forever, and you are more than your sport.

To every athlete, no matter how long the days feel, how lonely the nights get, and how tired you become from the feeling of fighting an uphill battle, you are not alone, and you are loved.