Character, sportsmanship, and work ethic are values that have shaped who I am both as a competitive angler and as a person in my community. I was introduced to fishing and the outdoors at a young age by my Dad and my Grandpa. After their unexpected passing in the same year, I realized how fortunate I was to have those experiences and the life lessons they taught me. It also made me realize how many kids never get the chance to learn patience, responsibility, and respect for nature through the outdoors. Because of that, I founded Casting to Make a Difference, an organization dedicated to introducing youth to fishing. With the help of my teammates on the Husker Bass Fishing Team, we host events at local lakes for underprivileged kids in our community. We provide rods, reels, bait, and donated gear so every child can participate regardless of their background. More importantly, we mentor them throughout the day, teaching not only how to fish but also sportsmanship, conservation, and confidence. Watching a kid catch their first fish and gain belief in themselves is one of the most rewarding experiences I have had. My commitment to making a difference has also led me to start my business, Revived Bait Co. LLC. While competing in tournaments, I noticed large amounts of torn soft plastic baits being thrown away or polluted in the water. These plastics absorb water and are often consumed by fish and wildlife, causing long-term harm. I created a recycling program that gives anglers incentives to save and turn in their used baits instead of discarding them. I then clean, sort, melt, and remold the plastics into new tournament-grade lures. This allows anglers to continue doing what they love while reducing pollution in our fisheries and making a difference. On the water, I compete hard but always respect my opponents and represent my university with integrity. Through social media and Revived Bait Co. I have met other college anglers who are now some of my best friends. Off the water, my work ethic shows through balancing travel, tournaments, academics, and running a business while still giving time to serve others. Through mentoring youth, promoting sustainability, and competing with respect, I strive to leave both the fishing community and my local community better than I found them. Fishing has given me purpose, and I want to make sure others have the same opportunity.