At this year’s UIL State & Field Championships, Charlotte Brown, a pole-vaulter at Emory Rains High School, was presented with the 2013 Section 6 National High School Spirit of Sport Award by the National Federation of State High School Associations.
The National Federation of State High Schools Associations Spirit of Sport Award was created to recognize those individuals who exemplify the ideals of the spirit of sport that represent the core mission of education-based athletics. The NFHS divides the nation into eight geographical sections, with Texas in Section 6.
Although legally blind, the sophomore placed eighth in the state in pole vaulting.
Brown’s visual abilities are similar to looking through a tiny straw. She cannot distinguish shapes or colors, and has no depth perception.
“I don’t believe anything, even vision impairment, should stop you from doing something you love or enjoy,” she said. “Being legally blind can be a little inconvenient at times but it’s those challenges that will make you strong.” UIL Assistant Athletic Director Traci Neely said Brown’s participation in the state meet inspired fans, officials and fellow contestants. more
