We’re proud to recognize Alex Shea, a freshman basketball & baseball player from St. Henry District High School as our Player Of The Month. We’ve chosen Alex not because of his huge athletic success but because he is a true fighter on and off the court. Our courageous player of the month is fighting a current battle that he nor his family ever expected. His recent journey has given him a new outlook and respect for life. Not just that, Alex’s story reminds us how blessed most of us are to play sports daily. Therefore, we can’t thank Alex enough for sharing his story with us!
Alex started playing sports at the age of five. His father, Brian Shea, a form
er NKU basketball player passed on his love of basketball to his son. This past school year, Alex played basketball and baseball as a freshman. This young man is that type of player who gives it all and supports his team unconditionally. During his Freshman basketball season, he recorded stats, attended every practice and contributed to his teams winning season. On the baseball field, Alex played on the freshman team as the team’s pitcher and occasionally in the out-field. The St. Henry freshman baseball team had a 10-6 record.
Earlier this year on Friday, April 22nd, Alex’s life drastically changed. Alex expected a normal day and went to school, however, because he wasn’t feeling good he decided to visit the doctor for a fast check up (Alex was hoping to play in his baseball game that night). In a matter of 2 hours, life as Alex knew it was no longer the same. Our Player Of The Month was unfortunately diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma. Since April 22nd, Alex has spent time at Children’s Hospital instead of school or on the baseball field, fighting cancer. Alex is currently undergoing chemotherapy. His aunt, Maureen Kaiser told EMS that:
“Alex is taking the challenge in a strong, mature manner. With his faith, family and his friends, I am sure Alex will be a winner. He is a fighter! As his aunt and SHDHS volleyball coach, I know the positive attitude and work ethic that Alex has will make him be back on that pitching mound before we know it. ”
Alex told EMS that this journey has:
“Given me a new perspective on life. Now, I don’t take for granted the opportunity of playing sports. Right now, I can’t play sports and now I appreciate the times that I was able too.”
The picture above shows just how supportive the community has been, Alex’s father told EMS that
“This photo was really special to the Shea Family. His summer baseball team was playing in a tournament Memorial Day Weekend. Ironically it was called ‘Striking Out Cancer’. Alex was in the hospital that week and came to the game on Sunday and this is what he saw when he walked on the field. Special shirts were made in his honor from the baseball team-At The Yard coached by Brandon Berger.”
Alex truly appreciates the support from his parents, friends and the community. Alex’s long term goal is to play collegiate basketball or baseball- his dream school being Notre Dame. However, right now his main focus is getting cancer free.
Alex Shea, is an extraordinary and courageous young man. Egelston Maynard Sports would like friends, family and the entire community to congratulate him. Please help us by sharing our story of Alex Shea.
If you’re interested in nominating a player for EMS Player Of The Month go HERE.
Egelston Maynard Sports 