College Hockey Player Shocks TikTok

This edition of the Underdog Newsletter features:

• 1,064 days between NFL starts

• From nearly 300 pounds to lights-out pitcher

• The college hockey player who left TikTok speechless

And much more. But first…

The answer is at the end of this email! Look for the ⭐ emoji.

This College Hockey Player Left TikTok Speechless

Endicott College hockey player Jack Smiley suffered a stroke in February 2022.

At first, the outlook was grim.

He was completely paralyzed on his right side, and his speech was barely understandable.

But in the time since then, Jack has beaten the odds – recovering faster than anyone ever imagined.

Believe it or not, he's already been back on the ice, in the weight room, and on the dance floor.

Jack has documented his recovery on TikTok, sharing his journey with more than 40,000 people who are inspired by his strength and infectious positivity.

We had a chance to interview Jack recently, and out of all the wisdom he shared, this was my favorite:

"No matter how bad it seems, there is always someone who would do absolutely anything to be in your exact position. Be grateful, positive, and don’t waste the opportunity."

You can check out the full interview here.

A quick word from our sponsor:

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🗞️ More Inspiring Stories

• Despite receiving zero SEC offers, Walter Payton became one of several NFL players to ascend to greatness from an NAIA school. [Joker Mag]

• "There was never a time where I thought, ‘Ah, I don’t think I can do this.’" Meet the super senior journeyman taking college football by storm. [Pro Football Focus]

• After reporting to 2019 spring training at nearly 300 pounds, Jose Alvarado is grateful for his long, arduous journey back to the top of his game. [Phillies.com]

• "I think I would regret it for the rest of my life." During the pandemic, 36-year-old David Krejci made the toughest decision of his career. Now he's back in the NHL. [NHL.com]

• Marcus Mariota waited 1,064 days to start an NFL game again. So far, the Atlanta Falcons QB is making the most of his second chance. [WHEC]

🔆 Amateur Spotlight

Roman Perez was diagnosed with a mild form of cerebral palsy when he was only 5-years-old.

Now a sophomore in high school, Perez is a three-sport athlete, playing baseball, basketball, and football.

“I don’t really think about it because people around me, like my coaches and teachers, they hold me to the same standards as my friends."

The 15-year-old has been a constant source of positivity among his teammates and peers.

Just recently, he volunteered as a buddy for Athletes Without Limits, an organization "helping athletes with intellectual impairments to reach their highest level in sport and life".

After graduation, Roman wants to play college baseball.

“I feel like I can be an inspiration because even though I have a disability, I don’t really give up on anything.”

Check out the full story by Julie Hays at KWTX. It’s well worth your time.

Do you know a youth, high school, or college athlete who's beaten the odds? Reply to this email to submit their story for a future Amateur Spotlight.

🐦 Top Tweet

💪 Thank You, Underdog Nation

Thank you for your endless support. We would not be here without each and every one of you.

⭐ Trivia Answer:

C) Walter Payton – 8 TD passes (source)

Wanna submit a trivia question, fun fact, or cool tidbit for our next newsletter? Reply to this email.

🙏 Thank You

I appreciate you taking the time to read the Underdog Newsletter.

If you want to help spread the word, forward this email to a friend!

Til next time,Tyler