Carroll County high school athletes share what their fathers have meant to their careers

Fathers often play a big role in the budding sports careers of young athletes.

A father can be an initial influence to get a kid involved in sports. He can be their first coach or their biggest supporter. It’s an impact that lasts a lifetime.

The Carroll County Times reached out to several county athletes to share what their fathers have meant to their careers. Here’s what they had to say:

Editor’s note: Some responses have been lightly edited for clarity.

Landon Hamper, South Carroll wrestling

In my sports career, my dad was always a big supporter, definitely my biggest. He always supported me and my goals. He always stood out as a father, though. Especially in my youth, he was always on me about improving and sometimes it got annoying, but now I really look at him as my No. 1 supporter and always look to him for everything. He’s always there for me in the ups and downs and never made me feel a certain way when I took some losses.

My best memories with him was when I won the state title and he told me we are jumping levels as a wrestler and I have so much potential and how much he loved me. It really hit hard to see him as a great father and coach at the same time, and having him in that corner to support me with all my battles on and off the mat.

Kasey Thomas, Manchester Valley softball

My dad has meant a lot to me in my sports career. He pushed me to do so much better in softball. He always encourages me throughout the game. No matter what, he is always there to support me at my games, which is such a great feeling. My dad has been a huge influence on my softball career and has always pushed me to get better.

Will Mollman, Westminster baseball

My dad has meant everything to me in my sports career. He taught me how to play baseball and he trains with me everyday. He’s honestly the reason I am the player and person I am today. I owe everything to him.

Summer Brooks, Francis Scott Key basketball

My dad has meant everything to me during my sports career. He pushes me every single day to not just be a better athlete, but a better person. He preaches to me what it means to be a great athlete and what it takes to be great at the next level. My dad always asks to rebound for me and will be in the gym with me for hours, even after his long days at work. I love my dad and I am grateful to have him in my life. Without him, I would not be in the position I am in today, and I would not be blessed with the things I have if it wasn’t for him.

Hayden Speace, Liberty tennis

When I was looking for a new sport to play sophomore year, my father suggested I try tennis. He has found me people to take lessons with and never once said a negative thing about my game. He is always at every match with an uplifting spirit. Regardless of how I played, he never had a negative thing to say and always has great advice after any loss. My father means so much to me in my tennis journey because he has always been there, every step of the way, with a smile on his face and the right words to say at any moment.

Braden Fritz, Manchester Valley football

My dad has played a crucial role in my athletic career. Since a young age, he developed discipline and a work ethic in me that has transferred to each and every sport I’ve played throughout the years. He provides support to whatever sports I choose to play and provides guidance to help me become a strong athlete. His presence at all of my games and events means a lot to me.

Charlotte Harrington, South Carroll basketball and lacrosse

My dad has really pushed me to be the best I can be and was always there for me when I needed any advice or was upset when I didn’t play good, or when I was frustrated with myself or my team. It’s never a dull moment when talking to my dad about sports. He always gives his honest opinion, and that’s what makes me and my mindset better. I could never have done it without him and his support.

Reed Postlethwait, Winters Mill soccer, wrestling and lacrosse

My dad has meant a lot to me in my sports career and has done a lot to get me to where I am now. I’ve always looked up to him because he wrestled at Penn State at the highest level. I started playing sports at the age of 5 and fell in love with them. My dad has done everything possible to support me throughout my career, from toughening me up in the wrestling room to driving me to a million lacrosse and soccer tournaments and practices. I’m prepared to go off to college now and I’m very grateful for everything I’ve learned from him. Happy Father’s Day!

Lexi McGinnis, Century soccer

My dad has always been a big part of my athletic life and I definitely wouldn’t be where I am without him. He has coached me and is the reason I started playing soccer in the first place when I was little. He constantly pushes me to be the best I can be and is always my No. 1 supporter. I’m so grateful to have someone who never wants to miss a game and always looks out for me. One of my favorite memories with him regarding soccer is definitely watching film with him and being able to bond over our favorite sport. I’m forever thankful for all the time I’ve spent with him and all of his efforts to help me grow as an athlete.

Kourtney Goff, Liberty soccer, basketball and lacrosse

My dad has been my coach and mentor since I was just a little girl dribbling a basketball. His dedication to my development in sports has been remarkable, and his presence on the sidelines has always been my greatest source of inspiration. Not only does he teach me the technical aspects of the game, but he also instills in me the values of hard work, determination and resilience. Whether it’s basketball, soccer or lacrosse, my dad is always there to push me to be my best and to support me through every victory and setback. His confidence in my abilities has given me the strength to pursue my athletic dreams, to now being committed to play next level Division I lacrosse and I am eternally grateful for his guidance and love.