More Than Just Training
Although I've now graduated high school, balancing academics and elite athletic training made up such a major part of my journey that it deserves its own space here. Making it to the top in a sport like luge takes more than just strong coaching and good training. It takes a powerful support system—at home, in school, and in your community. You need people in your corner who believe in your dream just as much as you do.
A New Start in Tennessee
I grew up in Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin, but moved to Clarksville, Tennessee, in my sophomore year. Switching schools is never easy—especially when your schedule includes intensive training, constant travel, and competing across the world for most of the winter. I was lucky to find a school willing to work with that reality: Clarksville High School, where I joined the Business Academy.
I'll be honest—I wasn't a standout student. I didn't always earn the level of support I was given, and that's exactly why I'm so grateful. Clarksville High gave me the chance to grow, pursue my goals, and stay on track during some of the most formative years of my life.
When I arrived, almost no one had even heard of luge. They didn't owe me their help, but they gave it anyway. They treated me like everyone else—not just with respect, but with real belief in what I was trying to do.
Mr. Feldman: Steady Guidance
Bryan Feldman, the principal at the time, was far more than just an administrator. Over three years, he became a pivotal figure in my growth—not just as an athlete, but as a young man finding his way. He helped keep me grounded, offering calm guidance in difficult times and steady accountability when I needed it most. He didn't just care about luge—he cared about me as a person.
He even came to watch me compete during my Junior World Cup debut in Park City, Utah in 2023. I didn't medal—not even close—but that didn't matter to him. He let me know how proud he was and reminded me that he believed in me. That kind of support meant everything. I'll always be grateful to have had someone like him in my corner.
Coach Huddleston: A Second Chance
Tom Huddleston, Clarksville's wrestling coach and a history teacher, is one of the most passionate and dedicated educators I've ever met. When I moved to Tennessee, it was shortly after COVID, and I was in a tough spot—physically, mentally, and emotionally. I had lost sight of how much luge meant to me.
At the time, I wasn't in shape and didn't look like a promising athlete. In fact, Coach Huddleston didn't even believe me when I first told him I did luge. I joined his wrestling team—not because I was good at it (I'm definitely not a natural wrestler)—but because I needed structure, support, and someone to believe in me. And he did.
Even though I couldn't always be there due to my training schedule, he welcomed me anyway. He let me train with the team, work out with him, and most importantly, find my footing again. Beyond athletics, he helped me with schoolwork, personal challenges, and taught me accountability and discipline. Whatever I brought to him—good or bad—he listened without judgment and showed up for me.
When I was in a hole, Coach Huddleston helped me climb out of it. He believed in my potential before I did. He's the kind of teacher every student deserves.
A Lasting Impact
Without Bryan Feldman and Tom Huddleston, I'm not sure I would have made it through high school—let alone become the person and athlete I am today. Their impact goes far beyond academics or athletics. They helped shape my character, my confidence, and my commitment to my goals.
I hope they know just how much they're appreciated—not just by me, but by every student lucky enough to cross their path.
Thank you both. I'll never forget it.