For Lansing senior Kieron Broadway, football has always been about more than what happens between the lines.
This season, that lesson has taken on a new meaning.
Broadway suffered an injury during his senior football season, creating one of the most difficult challenges of his high school career. Instead of allowing the setback to define his final season, Broadway is focused on fighting through it and using the experience to become a better teammate and person.
“Getting injured my senior season of football is one of the hardest things I’m going to go through in life, and I’m just proud to say I know I’m going to fight through it,” Broadway said.
The injury has also changed the way Broadway looks at motivation. Rather than focusing solely on personal accomplishments, he has learned the importance of having something bigger to play for.
“It’s taught me to not do everything for yourself,” Broadway said. “If you do everything for yourself you’re going to run out of motivation, but if you can look to your left and right and say, ‘I do this for them,’ that’s a way better motivator.”
That mindset has helped Broadway navigate adversity and appreciate the people around him who have played a role in his development.
One of those people is a former teacher, Mr. Yoakam, who Broadway remembers from middle school.
“My favorite teacher is probably Mr. Yoakam from middle school because even as a neglectful middle schooler, he taught me things that I find myself using to this day,” Broadway said. “No matter how much I brushed off his help he never gave up on me.”
Broadway also credits Coach Jed with having a lasting impact on his life. While there isn’t one specific piece of advice that stands out, Broadway said the lessons he has received over the years have helped shape who he is.
“It’s not one piece of advice specifically, but Coach Jed has taught me so many things throughout my life and I can’t thank him enough,” Broadway said.
Broadway has also enjoyed opportunities to give back to the Lansing community through athletics. Football and basketball have provided opportunities for the Lions to connect with younger students and families through activities such as kids camps.
Those experiences have reinforced another important part of Broadway’s athletic experience: being part of something bigger than himself.
As he works through the challenges of his senior season, Broadway is carrying those lessons with him. His injury may have changed his path, but it has not changed his determination.
For Broadway, the goal is to keep fighting, lean on the people around him and make the most of his final year as a Lansing Lion.
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