In a special homecoming, Jaden Leiby, former North Schuylkill football and baseball player, returned to his alma mater on Tuesday morning to deliver a moving motivational speech.
Addressing an auditorium of high school students, Leiby shared his journey of resilience after a devastating spinal injury on October 28th, 2019, cut short his promising athletic career.
His message? Overcoming obstacles, surrounding yourself with the right people, and never taking life for granted.
Leiby, who was left paralyzed after a tackle during his senior year, has become an emblem of strength and determination for his community. Speaking to the students, Jaden didn’t shy away from the hardships he has faced. Instead, he used them as a powerful reminder of how life’s most challenging moments can be a catalyst for growth. "We all have a passion for things," Jaden said. "It's up to you to take action on it."
Throughout his speech, Leiby encouraged students to pursue their goals despite fear or doubt. "If you are ever nervous to do anything, it's the perfect time to jump in and do it," he advised, highlighting the importance of pushing through hesitation to reach one's full potential.
He also touched on the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people, attributing much of his recovery and progress to the strong support system around him.
Jaden’s speech was full of personal anecdotes, including how he refused to give up on the things he loved, like hunting, after his injury. His resolve to keep going, despite the physical limitations, has inspired countless others. "In 28 years of coaching, I've never coached someone more hard-working than this guy," said North Schuylkill Baseball Head Coach Nick Brayford, who introduced Leiby to the students. "He keeps going, he keeps a positive attitude. He refuses to give up, he refuses to be beaten."
Leiby, who was left paralyzed after a tackle during his senior year, has become an emblem of strength and determination for his community. Speaking to the students, Jaden didn’t shy away from the hardships he has faced. Instead, he used them as a powerful reminder of how life’s most challenging moments can be a catalyst for growth. "We all have a passion for things," Jaden said. "It's up to you to take action on it."
Throughout his speech, Leiby encouraged students to pursue their goals despite fear or doubt. "If you are ever nervous to do anything, it's the perfect time to jump in and do it," he advised, highlighting the importance of pushing through hesitation to reach one's full potential.
He also touched on the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people, attributing much of his recovery and progress to the strong support system around him.
Jaden’s speech was full of personal anecdotes, including how he refused to give up on the things he loved, like hunting, after his injury. His resolve to keep going, despite the physical limitations, has inspired countless others. "In 28 years of coaching, I've never coached someone more hard-working than this guy," said North Schuylkill Baseball Head Coach Nick Brayford, who introduced Leiby to the students. "He keeps going, he keeps a positive attitude. He refuses to give up, he refuses to be beaten."
Leiby’s visit was not just about sharing his own story but also about encouraging others to live with purpose and seize every opportunity. "We all face challenges," Jaden said. "But it’s what you do in the face of those challenges that defines you. Don’t wait for the perfect moment; take action now."
Jaden's message left a lasting impression on both students and faculty, with several students staying afterwards to talk to Leiby one on one. His #6 jersey, retired by North Schuylkill, now hangs proudly in the school’s lobby.
Jaden's message left a lasting impression on both students and faculty, with several students staying afterwards to talk to Leiby one on one. His #6 jersey, retired by North Schuylkill, now hangs proudly in the school’s lobby.
