By Derrick Smith

Parents can play a huge role in the lives of their children. Not only do they raise them and take care of them, but they are also coaches and some of their biggest cheerleaders at things they participate in. Jael Torres says that while he has had different people that have impacted his life, there is one person that has always had the biggest influence.

“My biggest role model would have to be my dad,” Jael said. “I look up to him because he’s a hardworking man and works hard for what he wants. He has taught me that I need to work hard for the things I want to achieve and has taught me how to make the right choices in life and be successful. He always tries to take time from what he does to be able to take me to the gym and teach me new things to use in games.  My dad will always be my biggest role model.”

Torres is a sophomore at Hennessey High School where he is a member of the basketball team- a sport that he has played for a few years. 

“I have played basketball for about nine years now,” he said. “I started when I was in first- grade playing at the YMCA and from there I have never stopped playing.”

Throughout his career, Torres has had a number of memorable moments, but he says that there is one moment that will stick with him for a while and looks forward to having more in the future.

“So far, I would say that the highlight of my career would be starting during my freshman year,” he said. “I know it’s not common for freshmen to start so that will be something I will never forget. But I also know there are more highlights to come.”

Becoming the player that he is today is something that did not come easy, but it was worth it. 

“I think it has taken me working hard to be able to be successful in basketball.  All the hard work, dedication, and all the good people that have been around me always pushing me to achieve the next step in every game, has also been part of it.”