gone, but not forgotten-LEGACY LIVES ON -BY LUKE ELIE
June 9, 2019- “Those who do not learn history are doomed to repeat my class.” This was my favorite quote as a history teacher that I would proclaim to my students at the beginning of each year. It made enough sense to me, and I think my students pretty much got the message. But why is history so important? Are we really doomed if we don’t know where we come from? And what's up with this idea of "LEGACY?"
I first came to Korea in the mid 1990’s. To those I watched walk across the stage this week to gather their high school diplomas, I am considered super old or borderline ancient. Life in Korea was much different back then. Less high rise apartments, less crowded, less pollution, less weight, and a lot of less stuff in general. However, there I was; a shy young teenager and a new TCK (Third Culture Kid) in the making.
After the painful transition of learning a new culture and building a tolerance for the atomic taste and smell of kimchi, I would eventually go to school and become a 3 sport KAIAC athlete at International Christian School in Uijeongbu. Through sports, my world expanded, and I would learn that Korea was bigger than just my school. Through the medium of competition I began building lifelong friendships with my new extended family from other KAIAC schools (KAIAC is the Korean American Interscholastic Activities Conference).
Like many TCKs before me, after me and with me, I would graduate and agonize over the reality of having to say goodbye to friends that I have made and a life that I had. As a TCK, I learned quickly that one of the most valued assets we treasure in life is STABILITY. Simple things like just knowing our high school is somewhere out there can bring comfort and peace in times of transitional chaos. Sometimes it can be hard to fathom that something or someone that has been there your entire life could someday be gone.
Every holiday in Korea, you can hang out at any foreign school and witness the endless pilgrimage of past and recent alumni coming to pay homage to the schools they once attended. Many of them being shocked to still see old teachers and coaches still there and are more than excited to share a hug, high five or hello. It is also very common to see families come around throughout the year and overhear them say “Look here, this is where mommy and daddy went to school. Oh, and that's Mr. Olling (or FILL IN THE NAME), he was my coach.” As a TCK myself, there are very few places I feel like I can feel at home, and people I associate with it. My former school, teachers and coaches represent that.
Every year, thousands of foreign school students will pack their bags and memories and board a plane to go to countless nations dotting the globe in a mass exodus. Most of these students will never step foot on this peninsula ever again. And all too often, those goodbyes are permanent. But as hard as it is to say goodbye to individuals; how does one say goodbye to a school? Especially knowing that once they walk out those doors those doors will close behind them never to be opened again to welcome them home.
Today I witnessed the final graduating class ever for Seoul American High School. This year, SAHS will close its doors after 60 years of service. For me, this will be my fourth KAIAC school in my tenure here in Korea I will say goodbye to. SAHS has been a stable or constant force for thousands of students spanning multiple generations. Students from SAHS live all over the planet and have no doubt taken a moment to reflect on the impact that this historic school and their staff have had on their lives.
Sabrina Kim is part of that final 2019 class. She is a multi-sport athlete and part of the final graduating class for the Falcons and will be attending the Air Force Academy this fall. When asked about how she felt about saying goodbye to her school, she simply said “Although the school will be physically gone, the memories and everyone that I met won’t be. So, rather than seeing it as a goodbye, I see it as a SEE YOU LATER.” It is clear that those hallways will live on in her mind.
TCKs are all too familiar with the reality that people come and go. This reality can also extend to schools, houses, churches, geographic locations, etc. Change is constant, and nothing tangible seems to last very long except for the legacies we keep with us.
I asked SAHS alumni Joseph Mclean (class of 2009) who is now a husband and father of two; what is it like to be a graduate of a school that no longer exists? He responded by saying; “Coach Boyd (the SAHS basketball coach) said it best himself when we were at Far East tournament my senior year. He simply said ‘you seniors, leave it all on the court and despite the outcome, remember that here at SAHS, tradition never graduates.’” Joseph continued “Being a graduate of a school that no longer exists will always have a huge impact on my successes in life and I’ll be able to tell my children about my high school’s legacy.”
I for one agree with the words of Coach Boyd; "Traditions never graduates." SAHS certainly has an amazing winning tradition. I cannot begin to count how many Far East and KAIAC banners and trophies will be taken down and put into storage somewhere. I certainly will not forget the epic battles I faced as an athlete against SAHS in basketball and on the field. When people asked me what prepared me for my basketball career after I graduated high school, I simply said: "SAHS." This continued on as well when I became a KAIAC coach. The Falcons were the gold standard in most sports and it was an honor to compete with or chase after them.
However, SAHS’s impact was not simply on just those that walked their halls or in the immediate vicinity of Yongsan. SAHS’s impact can be felt all around Korea and Asia. The legendary Brian Olling has been a consistent stabilizing force for TCKs in Korea at ICS-U as a teacher and coach since 1989. I asked him how SAHS impacted him. With a smile and chuckle he said “SAHS was so important competitively to so many athletes. It was a huge deal when we beat them in basketball for the first time... Coach Donald Hedgepath did so much to help our small school develop here at ICS and their support was huge.”
As mentioned earlier, SAHS is not the first school to close its doors after decades of service. I can still remember it like yesterday when it was official that Pusan American High School would close. It was weird to not have them around. I felt there was a hole in the schedule when you noticed PAHS was no longer on it.
As an athlete I anticipated the long road trips on the bus to Camp Hialeah, Pusan with friends. Although sleeping on that hard PAHS gym floor left much to be desired and waking up early for those dreaded 9am games, many of us were excited for a quick trip for pancakes and eggs at that small little burger bar near the school. I always enjoyed playing and coaching against Pusan. Those Panthers played with heart and always competed hard!
Dave Ornauer of the Stars and Stripes newspaper has fond memories as I asked him to remember what he misses the most about Pusan American High School; "Small-town atmosphere. The tightness of community. Where everybody knows your name and they ARE always glad you came." I certainly miss the same thing about them and even to this day I refuse to spell Pusan with a "B."
"As an alumni of a school that no longer exists breaks my heart. Sometimes when I visit Korea, I would love to go back and visit my school and see how everything is going. But knowing it's not there anymore is not a great feeling. I am just glad that I had a chance to go to great school and at least I have my memories to hold on to." -Andrew Youn- Indianhead International School Class of 2011
Indianhead International School served families in the Camp Casey and Camp Red Cloud communities for decades before closing its doors in 2012. They produced a lot of good athletes and a lot of hardware in their KAIAC run. Long time KAIAC Athletic Director at Seoul International School, Ivan Atanaskovic and his wife Tamara started their KAIAC days at IIS and is remembered by rival coach Tim Baker who was the AD and coached at Centennial Christian School at the time: "I have a tremendous amount of respect for Ivan and Tamara as coaches. Whether it was volleyball or basketball, their teams were always prepared. Competing against them was a challenge."
Coach JJ Davis of YISS has served in KAIAC for over a decade as a coach and AD. He remembers the good ole days of Centennial Christian School where he started his KAIAC career. Coach Davis said, “I remember how hard those 70 hour weeks were in season because at a small school, you had to do everything. But I don't remember ever complaining because the kids were awesome and worth it!” I believe most of us KAIAC coaches can resonate with Coach Davis' words. It is sad that the CCS Lions no longer are with us.
CCS, IIS, PAHS and now SAHS may no longer be with us, but ALL four schools have had an amazing impact on my life here as a student, teacher and coach. I am blessed to have had a chance to work with students and coaches from all of those schools over the years. It will be strange to add SAHS to the list of holes on the KAIAC athletic schedule next year. But just like those schools before them and someday after them, their legacies will continue to live on through the extended family of KAIAC.
Sure, life of a TCK will always be transient and often confusing. And often we wrestle with identity; wondering who we are and where we belong. I mean, I still get tripped up when people ask me simple questions like "So Luke, Where are you from?" But one thing I am not confused about is that I am blessed and excited that I was called to start the East Asia Elite Program to help students learn who they are, where they are going, and how their gifts and passion for sports fit into the big picture.
CCS 2009 Alumni, Charlie Kim takes on the topic of identity when I asked him what it is like to no longer have a school; “It feels kind of sad and empty that all the memories you have made and the years you spent at school will only remain a memory in your mind. But it also shows that nothing lasts forever and that our time on Earth will also come to an end someday. Therefore, we should look to our citizenship in Heaven and not on earthly things to comfort us.”
I know a lot of people will give an affirming AMEN to that comment. But regardless of what people believe, and where we claim our citizenship, it is important to always remember that who we are is so much more than just the schools we claim, the teams we play for, the jobs we work, the family name we carry and the stuff we accumulate. I just hope I can do my part to encourage athletes, students and people all over to find comfort and peace in things that are far more stable then our schools. Because as we learned, they don't last forever. This is the legacy that I am trying to leave. What legacy are you trying to be remembered for?
So, I want to ask you this; what is your school's Legacy? What will your school be remembered for? and How are you adding to the legacy of your school?
This year, we are saying goodbye to amazing people who have added so much to the lives of students in Korea. I want to thank Brian Olling, Ivan and Tamara Atanaskovic, JJ Davis, John Bertken, JP Rader, Dan Clem, Susan Haynes, Bevo Larue, and so many more for leading KAIAC over the decades and the legacies they are leaving behind for us who are staying. I pray that God will use you and your platforms to impact people in a positive way just as you did here.
How does one really end an article like this? I really don't know. If I keep writing, I will get all sappy and pathetic. So, I will let you figure that out.
Mean while; NEVER FORGET the IIS Warriors, SAHS Falcons, PAHS Panthers and CCS Lions; LEGACY LIVES ON!
I first came to Korea in the mid 1990’s. To those I watched walk across the stage this week to gather their high school diplomas, I am considered super old or borderline ancient. Life in Korea was much different back then. Less high rise apartments, less crowded, less pollution, less weight, and a lot of less stuff in general. However, there I was; a shy young teenager and a new TCK (Third Culture Kid) in the making.
After the painful transition of learning a new culture and building a tolerance for the atomic taste and smell of kimchi, I would eventually go to school and become a 3 sport KAIAC athlete at International Christian School in Uijeongbu. Through sports, my world expanded, and I would learn that Korea was bigger than just my school. Through the medium of competition I began building lifelong friendships with my new extended family from other KAIAC schools (KAIAC is the Korean American Interscholastic Activities Conference).
Like many TCKs before me, after me and with me, I would graduate and agonize over the reality of having to say goodbye to friends that I have made and a life that I had. As a TCK, I learned quickly that one of the most valued assets we treasure in life is STABILITY. Simple things like just knowing our high school is somewhere out there can bring comfort and peace in times of transitional chaos. Sometimes it can be hard to fathom that something or someone that has been there your entire life could someday be gone.
Every holiday in Korea, you can hang out at any foreign school and witness the endless pilgrimage of past and recent alumni coming to pay homage to the schools they once attended. Many of them being shocked to still see old teachers and coaches still there and are more than excited to share a hug, high five or hello. It is also very common to see families come around throughout the year and overhear them say “Look here, this is where mommy and daddy went to school. Oh, and that's Mr. Olling (or FILL IN THE NAME), he was my coach.” As a TCK myself, there are very few places I feel like I can feel at home, and people I associate with it. My former school, teachers and coaches represent that.
Every year, thousands of foreign school students will pack their bags and memories and board a plane to go to countless nations dotting the globe in a mass exodus. Most of these students will never step foot on this peninsula ever again. And all too often, those goodbyes are permanent. But as hard as it is to say goodbye to individuals; how does one say goodbye to a school? Especially knowing that once they walk out those doors those doors will close behind them never to be opened again to welcome them home.
Today I witnessed the final graduating class ever for Seoul American High School. This year, SAHS will close its doors after 60 years of service. For me, this will be my fourth KAIAC school in my tenure here in Korea I will say goodbye to. SAHS has been a stable or constant force for thousands of students spanning multiple generations. Students from SAHS live all over the planet and have no doubt taken a moment to reflect on the impact that this historic school and their staff have had on their lives.
Sabrina Kim is part of that final 2019 class. She is a multi-sport athlete and part of the final graduating class for the Falcons and will be attending the Air Force Academy this fall. When asked about how she felt about saying goodbye to her school, she simply said “Although the school will be physically gone, the memories and everyone that I met won’t be. So, rather than seeing it as a goodbye, I see it as a SEE YOU LATER.” It is clear that those hallways will live on in her mind.
TCKs are all too familiar with the reality that people come and go. This reality can also extend to schools, houses, churches, geographic locations, etc. Change is constant, and nothing tangible seems to last very long except for the legacies we keep with us.
I asked SAHS alumni Joseph Mclean (class of 2009) who is now a husband and father of two; what is it like to be a graduate of a school that no longer exists? He responded by saying; “Coach Boyd (the SAHS basketball coach) said it best himself when we were at Far East tournament my senior year. He simply said ‘you seniors, leave it all on the court and despite the outcome, remember that here at SAHS, tradition never graduates.’” Joseph continued “Being a graduate of a school that no longer exists will always have a huge impact on my successes in life and I’ll be able to tell my children about my high school’s legacy.”
I for one agree with the words of Coach Boyd; "Traditions never graduates." SAHS certainly has an amazing winning tradition. I cannot begin to count how many Far East and KAIAC banners and trophies will be taken down and put into storage somewhere. I certainly will not forget the epic battles I faced as an athlete against SAHS in basketball and on the field. When people asked me what prepared me for my basketball career after I graduated high school, I simply said: "SAHS." This continued on as well when I became a KAIAC coach. The Falcons were the gold standard in most sports and it was an honor to compete with or chase after them.
However, SAHS’s impact was not simply on just those that walked their halls or in the immediate vicinity of Yongsan. SAHS’s impact can be felt all around Korea and Asia. The legendary Brian Olling has been a consistent stabilizing force for TCKs in Korea at ICS-U as a teacher and coach since 1989. I asked him how SAHS impacted him. With a smile and chuckle he said “SAHS was so important competitively to so many athletes. It was a huge deal when we beat them in basketball for the first time... Coach Donald Hedgepath did so much to help our small school develop here at ICS and their support was huge.”
As mentioned earlier, SAHS is not the first school to close its doors after decades of service. I can still remember it like yesterday when it was official that Pusan American High School would close. It was weird to not have them around. I felt there was a hole in the schedule when you noticed PAHS was no longer on it.
As an athlete I anticipated the long road trips on the bus to Camp Hialeah, Pusan with friends. Although sleeping on that hard PAHS gym floor left much to be desired and waking up early for those dreaded 9am games, many of us were excited for a quick trip for pancakes and eggs at that small little burger bar near the school. I always enjoyed playing and coaching against Pusan. Those Panthers played with heart and always competed hard!
Dave Ornauer of the Stars and Stripes newspaper has fond memories as I asked him to remember what he misses the most about Pusan American High School; "Small-town atmosphere. The tightness of community. Where everybody knows your name and they ARE always glad you came." I certainly miss the same thing about them and even to this day I refuse to spell Pusan with a "B."
"As an alumni of a school that no longer exists breaks my heart. Sometimes when I visit Korea, I would love to go back and visit my school and see how everything is going. But knowing it's not there anymore is not a great feeling. I am just glad that I had a chance to go to great school and at least I have my memories to hold on to." -Andrew Youn- Indianhead International School Class of 2011
Indianhead International School served families in the Camp Casey and Camp Red Cloud communities for decades before closing its doors in 2012. They produced a lot of good athletes and a lot of hardware in their KAIAC run. Long time KAIAC Athletic Director at Seoul International School, Ivan Atanaskovic and his wife Tamara started their KAIAC days at IIS and is remembered by rival coach Tim Baker who was the AD and coached at Centennial Christian School at the time: "I have a tremendous amount of respect for Ivan and Tamara as coaches. Whether it was volleyball or basketball, their teams were always prepared. Competing against them was a challenge."
Coach JJ Davis of YISS has served in KAIAC for over a decade as a coach and AD. He remembers the good ole days of Centennial Christian School where he started his KAIAC career. Coach Davis said, “I remember how hard those 70 hour weeks were in season because at a small school, you had to do everything. But I don't remember ever complaining because the kids were awesome and worth it!” I believe most of us KAIAC coaches can resonate with Coach Davis' words. It is sad that the CCS Lions no longer are with us.
CCS, IIS, PAHS and now SAHS may no longer be with us, but ALL four schools have had an amazing impact on my life here as a student, teacher and coach. I am blessed to have had a chance to work with students and coaches from all of those schools over the years. It will be strange to add SAHS to the list of holes on the KAIAC athletic schedule next year. But just like those schools before them and someday after them, their legacies will continue to live on through the extended family of KAIAC.
Sure, life of a TCK will always be transient and often confusing. And often we wrestle with identity; wondering who we are and where we belong. I mean, I still get tripped up when people ask me simple questions like "So Luke, Where are you from?" But one thing I am not confused about is that I am blessed and excited that I was called to start the East Asia Elite Program to help students learn who they are, where they are going, and how their gifts and passion for sports fit into the big picture.
CCS 2009 Alumni, Charlie Kim takes on the topic of identity when I asked him what it is like to no longer have a school; “It feels kind of sad and empty that all the memories you have made and the years you spent at school will only remain a memory in your mind. But it also shows that nothing lasts forever and that our time on Earth will also come to an end someday. Therefore, we should look to our citizenship in Heaven and not on earthly things to comfort us.”
I know a lot of people will give an affirming AMEN to that comment. But regardless of what people believe, and where we claim our citizenship, it is important to always remember that who we are is so much more than just the schools we claim, the teams we play for, the jobs we work, the family name we carry and the stuff we accumulate. I just hope I can do my part to encourage athletes, students and people all over to find comfort and peace in things that are far more stable then our schools. Because as we learned, they don't last forever. This is the legacy that I am trying to leave. What legacy are you trying to be remembered for?
So, I want to ask you this; what is your school's Legacy? What will your school be remembered for? and How are you adding to the legacy of your school?
This year, we are saying goodbye to amazing people who have added so much to the lives of students in Korea. I want to thank Brian Olling, Ivan and Tamara Atanaskovic, JJ Davis, John Bertken, JP Rader, Dan Clem, Susan Haynes, Bevo Larue, and so many more for leading KAIAC over the decades and the legacies they are leaving behind for us who are staying. I pray that God will use you and your platforms to impact people in a positive way just as you did here.
How does one really end an article like this? I really don't know. If I keep writing, I will get all sappy and pathetic. So, I will let you figure that out.
Mean while; NEVER FORGET the IIS Warriors, SAHS Falcons, PAHS Panthers and CCS Lions; LEGACY LIVES ON!
PEDRO CHUNG CIFUENTES- LIVING THE LION LEGACY
SEPTEMBER 21, 2017 I will never forget the day when this quiet boy named Pedro entered my 7th grade world history classroom at Centennial Christian School in Seoul, South Korea. He would just sit there every day with a smirk on his face that would never change no matter what I would say or do. I could never tell exactly what was going inside his head. I would try to ask questions but I would just get that same smile accompanied with a shoulder shrug. I knew very little about Pedro, except that his transfer papers said he was from Guatemala and he was more than willing to correct my horrible pronunciation of historical Spanish words ("how do you say Treaty of Tordesillas?"). However, I learned quickly that what he did not express in words through his calm and quiet demeanor would be loudly proclaimed in the field of competition.
This year Pedro Chung Cifuentes will suit up for his second season at Georgia Southwestern State University. He will be playing midfield and wearing number 26. But the journey from the smallest school in KAIAC (Korea) to earning a scholarship to play NCAA soccer was not easy and I was excited to catch up with him to find out what he has learned.
Pedro started off by sharing with me about his time at CCS. When he first started attending the school, he was not happy about it. He has moved around a lot and going to a new school was nothing new. But he was clear that CCS was not what he wanted at all. Over time, Pedro grew to love the family atmosphere. Eventually he would gain confidence in English as his third language and began to excel in the classroom. By the time he graduated, CCS became an integral part of his life. The friends and memories he made there will be with him always.
Pedro went on to recall the many memories he made in sports. Recalling the multiple volleyball championships and the time he was able to lead his CCS Lions soccer team to the conference championship game. He also explained how when he was younger he learned a lot from his older classmates and friends. And as he was growing older, he appreciated the teachers and coaches stepping up to mentor him. He attributes much of his success to those times. And he is very grateful that even though his mentors are halfway around the world, they are still there to help him.
Pedro has had a lot of love and support over the years, but he did not do this journey alone. His younger brother Paulo has been there with Pedro through thick and thin and has been a great source of encouragement to him. He would often wonder where he would be without the support of his brother.
Pedro is currently studying Exercise Sports Science at GSWSU. He took an interest in this early in high school as he wanted to learn more about how the body performs under different conditions. Being an athlete, he was able to experiment first hand. He explained that he chose GSWSU because it offered him a great opportunity to take the next step in soccer, professional career and also in his life. He loves his experience there because it offers a small intimate campus that reminds him of CCS and the family life he enjoyed there.
Although Pedro is a dual citizen (Korea and Guatemala) with two legal names, Pedro has had the chance to find his true identity in Christ. Faith is an important part of Pedro’s life. He excited to share his college experience with many different Christians on campus and enjoy a variety of Christian programs as well. He feels that his community is helping him grow closer to God.
I asked Pedro what are some challenges of playing college sports. He responded by saying "Being a student-athlete requires more than just simply studying and practicing. It is a responsibility and a privilege. But with dedication, anything is possible. So, set a goal and reach it. As you work for your goal, push yourself to keep going. Remember, never feel satisfied. Stay humble and hungry for more because hard work is awarded but it is awarded depending on how much you want it."
He would go on to explain how much higher college soccer was compared to KAIAC (high school); "the level of competition increased so much. But not enough to stop me. It just meant that I had to work even harder and put extra work." The hard work is paying off as Pedro's playing time this season has already increased!
Pedro, you have come a long way from Guatemala, South Korea and now Georgia. Your journey has been shared by many and cheered on by few. However, East Asia Elite is excited to acknowledge you and your incredible accomplishment. Many players who attend international schools all over Asia will now know your story and hopefully be inspired to achieve their athletic dreams at the next level. It is students like you who have come into my life that encouraged me to begin the EAE program. I hope to find more students like you and tell their stories and help even more create their stories.
It is amazing how God brought both of our journeys together many years ago in a small classroom at CCS. It is sad that Centennial Christian School no longer exists. But its memory will live on through you and the many students who have made the CCS experience incredible for the both of us. No one will ever remove the many championships and accomplishments that the CCS Lions were able to achieve in Korea. I always hoped and prayed someone from CCS would make it out and play NCAA sports. YOU DID IT!!!
This year Pedro Chung Cifuentes will suit up for his second season at Georgia Southwestern State University. He will be playing midfield and wearing number 26. But the journey from the smallest school in KAIAC (Korea) to earning a scholarship to play NCAA soccer was not easy and I was excited to catch up with him to find out what he has learned.
Pedro started off by sharing with me about his time at CCS. When he first started attending the school, he was not happy about it. He has moved around a lot and going to a new school was nothing new. But he was clear that CCS was not what he wanted at all. Over time, Pedro grew to love the family atmosphere. Eventually he would gain confidence in English as his third language and began to excel in the classroom. By the time he graduated, CCS became an integral part of his life. The friends and memories he made there will be with him always.
Pedro went on to recall the many memories he made in sports. Recalling the multiple volleyball championships and the time he was able to lead his CCS Lions soccer team to the conference championship game. He also explained how when he was younger he learned a lot from his older classmates and friends. And as he was growing older, he appreciated the teachers and coaches stepping up to mentor him. He attributes much of his success to those times. And he is very grateful that even though his mentors are halfway around the world, they are still there to help him.
Pedro has had a lot of love and support over the years, but he did not do this journey alone. His younger brother Paulo has been there with Pedro through thick and thin and has been a great source of encouragement to him. He would often wonder where he would be without the support of his brother.
Pedro is currently studying Exercise Sports Science at GSWSU. He took an interest in this early in high school as he wanted to learn more about how the body performs under different conditions. Being an athlete, he was able to experiment first hand. He explained that he chose GSWSU because it offered him a great opportunity to take the next step in soccer, professional career and also in his life. He loves his experience there because it offers a small intimate campus that reminds him of CCS and the family life he enjoyed there.
Although Pedro is a dual citizen (Korea and Guatemala) with two legal names, Pedro has had the chance to find his true identity in Christ. Faith is an important part of Pedro’s life. He excited to share his college experience with many different Christians on campus and enjoy a variety of Christian programs as well. He feels that his community is helping him grow closer to God.
I asked Pedro what are some challenges of playing college sports. He responded by saying "Being a student-athlete requires more than just simply studying and practicing. It is a responsibility and a privilege. But with dedication, anything is possible. So, set a goal and reach it. As you work for your goal, push yourself to keep going. Remember, never feel satisfied. Stay humble and hungry for more because hard work is awarded but it is awarded depending on how much you want it."
He would go on to explain how much higher college soccer was compared to KAIAC (high school); "the level of competition increased so much. But not enough to stop me. It just meant that I had to work even harder and put extra work." The hard work is paying off as Pedro's playing time this season has already increased!
Pedro, you have come a long way from Guatemala, South Korea and now Georgia. Your journey has been shared by many and cheered on by few. However, East Asia Elite is excited to acknowledge you and your incredible accomplishment. Many players who attend international schools all over Asia will now know your story and hopefully be inspired to achieve their athletic dreams at the next level. It is students like you who have come into my life that encouraged me to begin the EAE program. I hope to find more students like you and tell their stories and help even more create their stories.
It is amazing how God brought both of our journeys together many years ago in a small classroom at CCS. It is sad that Centennial Christian School no longer exists. But its memory will live on through you and the many students who have made the CCS experience incredible for the both of us. No one will ever remove the many championships and accomplishments that the CCS Lions were able to achieve in Korea. I always hoped and prayed someone from CCS would make it out and play NCAA sports. YOU DID IT!!!
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"FROM THE FIRST TIME HE (PEDRO) STEPPED FOOT ON THE PITCH, THERE WAS NEVER GOING TO BE A PERSON WHO OUT WORKED HIM OR A DAY THAT HE DIDN'T GIVE HIS BEST. HE WAS THE DEFINITION OF EFFORT AND DETERMINATION. AND THAT TYPE OF ATTITUDE AND LEADERSHIP IS INFECTIOUS."
-COACH JEREMIAH DAVIS CCS SOCCER COACH 2008-2011 |
BLAKE HLATKY- FROM JERSEY SHORE TO APAC LORE
March 14, 2017-- As Shanghai American School (Puxi) celebrated another APAC championship over their finals opponent Seoul Foreign School in Hanoi, Vietnam, Blake Hlatky of Brent International School was sitting in the stands watching on as they finished in third place. As a senior, Blake was mulling over his now complete high school basketball career. Many seniors tend to feel grief as their high school careers come to an end. However, Blake is a bit different, he is confident and excited about his future as a college athlete. It helps that several American colleges are already requesting the scoring services that Blake can bring to a collegiate team at the next level.
When Blake is not playing basketball you can find him indulging in his other passions of playing video games, weightlifting, dreaming about being a rapper or simply obsessing over his love for Madison Beer. Blake is a multi sport varsity athlete who has found great success playing multiple positions on the baseball field and now trying to add track and field to his impressive athletic resume.
Blake is an only child who grew up in Ocean Township, New Jersey before his family moved to the Philippines his Freshman year where he began to attend high school at Brent International School. When asked about what he likes about his school, Blake replies “It’s really a great environment to be yourself, and everyone is very supportive of everything in the school from sports to the arts. This is key to student success.”
Unlike many other high school basketball stars, Blake prefers to follow the college basketball scene as opposed to the NBA. Although he does admit that he enjoys watching in awe the overall skills of Westbrook, the scoring of Bradley Beal and the Washington Wizards when he has a chance. Blake was very proud to say that he was a UNC fan for as long as he can remember. And in the tradition of March Madness he predicts a Final Four of UNC, Notre Dame, Kansas and Duke (No ACC bias of course).
As I got to know Blake a little more we talked about his basketball goals, dreams and future plans. He explained, “One goal of mine is to play basketball in college and to continue playing until I physically cannot.” Blake continued to share that “I plan to become an engineer or architect of some sort as I love the idea of being able to look at what I have created.” As for dreams, Blake says; “It has always been a dream of mine to make my life revolve around basketball, and to make a living through the game.”
There is no doubt that basketball is a huge part of Blake’s life and that he has worked hard to get to where he is. Blake has learned a lot about life through the game as he says; “There is always room for improvement, and that if you put the work in then the results can come. I think this can be applied to anything. It is okay if I fail as long as I gave it my all, but I don’t want to be that guy that wishes they did things differently.”
FINAL WORDS FROM BLAKE: “I would like to say thank you to everyone that has helped me on this journey to where I am, whether they’re supporters or doubters, it has helped me become not only the player I am today, but also the person I am today. It's great to see support from almost everyone around me and I think that was really a key for me to keep pushing myself, but also it was great to have doubters as it just pushed me to want to prove them wrong. For the rest of the world I just want to say to stay wake, and don’t sleep on this kid... Special shout out to William (SAS-Puxi) for pushing me to be better and for being a great overall friend. Last but not least, thank you to my parents for always putting me in the best positions to succeed.”
"Blake Hlatky is one of the most positive young men I've had the pleasure to Coach. He's been a true asset to my program." -Coach John Alexander (Global Squad)
Blake, EAE is excited to cheer for you and I (Luke Elie) am excited to have watched you play and grow as a player over the past few years. I hope and pray that God opens the right doors for you in the future to fulfill your dreams to play ball at the highest level, be an engineer, and be the best man you can be. I pray that you use your gifts and talents to change the world in a positive way. I ain’t gonna sleep on this kid!
When Blake is not playing basketball you can find him indulging in his other passions of playing video games, weightlifting, dreaming about being a rapper or simply obsessing over his love for Madison Beer. Blake is a multi sport varsity athlete who has found great success playing multiple positions on the baseball field and now trying to add track and field to his impressive athletic resume.
Blake is an only child who grew up in Ocean Township, New Jersey before his family moved to the Philippines his Freshman year where he began to attend high school at Brent International School. When asked about what he likes about his school, Blake replies “It’s really a great environment to be yourself, and everyone is very supportive of everything in the school from sports to the arts. This is key to student success.”
Unlike many other high school basketball stars, Blake prefers to follow the college basketball scene as opposed to the NBA. Although he does admit that he enjoys watching in awe the overall skills of Westbrook, the scoring of Bradley Beal and the Washington Wizards when he has a chance. Blake was very proud to say that he was a UNC fan for as long as he can remember. And in the tradition of March Madness he predicts a Final Four of UNC, Notre Dame, Kansas and Duke (No ACC bias of course).
As I got to know Blake a little more we talked about his basketball goals, dreams and future plans. He explained, “One goal of mine is to play basketball in college and to continue playing until I physically cannot.” Blake continued to share that “I plan to become an engineer or architect of some sort as I love the idea of being able to look at what I have created.” As for dreams, Blake says; “It has always been a dream of mine to make my life revolve around basketball, and to make a living through the game.”
There is no doubt that basketball is a huge part of Blake’s life and that he has worked hard to get to where he is. Blake has learned a lot about life through the game as he says; “There is always room for improvement, and that if you put the work in then the results can come. I think this can be applied to anything. It is okay if I fail as long as I gave it my all, but I don’t want to be that guy that wishes they did things differently.”
FINAL WORDS FROM BLAKE: “I would like to say thank you to everyone that has helped me on this journey to where I am, whether they’re supporters or doubters, it has helped me become not only the player I am today, but also the person I am today. It's great to see support from almost everyone around me and I think that was really a key for me to keep pushing myself, but also it was great to have doubters as it just pushed me to want to prove them wrong. For the rest of the world I just want to say to stay wake, and don’t sleep on this kid... Special shout out to William (SAS-Puxi) for pushing me to be better and for being a great overall friend. Last but not least, thank you to my parents for always putting me in the best positions to succeed.”
"Blake Hlatky is one of the most positive young men I've had the pleasure to Coach. He's been a true asset to my program." -Coach John Alexander (Global Squad)
Blake, EAE is excited to cheer for you and I (Luke Elie) am excited to have watched you play and grow as a player over the past few years. I hope and pray that God opens the right doors for you in the future to fulfill your dreams to play ball at the highest level, be an engineer, and be the best man you can be. I pray that you use your gifts and talents to change the world in a positive way. I ain’t gonna sleep on this kid!
"I wanted to give a huge thanks to John Alexander, and everyone at Global Squad as i believe that is where I believe I made the most development as a player, and without Global Squad I don't think I would be able to play in college. So a huge thank you to them, and would highly recommend anyone serious about college basketball to go and spend a month at Global Squad."
-Blake Hlatky (Brent International School- Philippines) |
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TAEHO ERIC KIM: THE PHOENIX IS RISING
Taeho Eric Kim
As the buzzer sounded to end the game, it also marked the end of the season for a young and optimistic Cheongna Dalton Phoenix team that entered the final game with hopes of winning the KAIAC White Division crown. But as fate would have it, for the second straight season, Dwight International led by MVP Elton Kim (23 pts 8 reb in finals) blocked them for the second year in a row to win consecutive titles. After both teams line up and exchange congratulations, individual awards are announced, the gym lights of the host school ICS Pyeongtaek dim, and the off season begins; I was able to catch up with Cheongna Dalton’s Sophomore Shooting Guard, Taeho Eric Kim and learn more about him and his team.
Taeho is a typical kid who loves video games, hanging with friends and watching sports highlights between the busy demands of everyday academic expectations of an international school. Taeho was born and raised in Korea with time living in the Philippines as well. Taeho attends Cheongna Dalton School which is located in Cheongna International City, which is a developing area between the city of Seoul and Incheon International Airport. CDS competes in the KAIAC White Division. It is often a forgotten division in KAIAC that also boasts some of Asia’s top sports powers like Seoul American and Seoul Foreign Schools. But players like Taeho and many others at rival White Division Schools are doing their best to put their programs on the map. And we at East Asia Elite are doing our best to recognize these players and programs.
Taeho is a basketball junky who loves to pattern his game after his favorite player Steph Curry. Like Curry, Taeho loves to pull up for the three ball from anywhere at anytime. When asked why he likes basketball, Taeho simply said “I like playing basketball because it requires great teamwork which is my favorite part of playing basketball and also how hard work in practice will show in games.” I also asked Taeho what his favorite part of the season was; he said “My favorite part of the season was where we came back after winter break and won 4 or 5 in a row." He went on to explain "I've been injured with my finger being almost detached and also the doctor told me it was nearly impossible to play this season. I've been to doctor 3 times a week and got treatment which made me come back to the court and play for my team.” I am not sure how many players would try to play with the busted finger but Taeho certainly did.
Taeho made it clear that one of his basketball goals is a Phoenix championship next season. There is no doubt that he will work hard and inspire his teammates to do the same to accomplish this goal. His coach, Dan Clem, who has been essential in Taeho’s development says “Taeho embodies the spirit of persistence... After breaking his shooting hand before tryouts. He was determined to get back and even learned how to shoot with his left hand. He came back after break and led our to 6 straight wins before losing in the finals. The season has ended now, but every time I walk by the gym and hear a ball bouncing, there is only one player I expect it to be- Taeho Kim."
EAE wants to acknowledge Taeho Kim and his teammates on a great season. EAE wants to cheer for all the White Division teams (ICS-UJB, ICS-PTK, KKFS, CDS and Dwight) and coaches on all their hard work in making these seasons fun and memorable. As always, EAE reminds you that God has given you the gifts that you have to play this incredible game of basketball. We encourage you to use these gifts and passions to make the world a better place. This season might be over but next year's champions are already working hard.
Taeho is a typical kid who loves video games, hanging with friends and watching sports highlights between the busy demands of everyday academic expectations of an international school. Taeho was born and raised in Korea with time living in the Philippines as well. Taeho attends Cheongna Dalton School which is located in Cheongna International City, which is a developing area between the city of Seoul and Incheon International Airport. CDS competes in the KAIAC White Division. It is often a forgotten division in KAIAC that also boasts some of Asia’s top sports powers like Seoul American and Seoul Foreign Schools. But players like Taeho and many others at rival White Division Schools are doing their best to put their programs on the map. And we at East Asia Elite are doing our best to recognize these players and programs.
Taeho is a basketball junky who loves to pattern his game after his favorite player Steph Curry. Like Curry, Taeho loves to pull up for the three ball from anywhere at anytime. When asked why he likes basketball, Taeho simply said “I like playing basketball because it requires great teamwork which is my favorite part of playing basketball and also how hard work in practice will show in games.” I also asked Taeho what his favorite part of the season was; he said “My favorite part of the season was where we came back after winter break and won 4 or 5 in a row." He went on to explain "I've been injured with my finger being almost detached and also the doctor told me it was nearly impossible to play this season. I've been to doctor 3 times a week and got treatment which made me come back to the court and play for my team.” I am not sure how many players would try to play with the busted finger but Taeho certainly did.
Taeho made it clear that one of his basketball goals is a Phoenix championship next season. There is no doubt that he will work hard and inspire his teammates to do the same to accomplish this goal. His coach, Dan Clem, who has been essential in Taeho’s development says “Taeho embodies the spirit of persistence... After breaking his shooting hand before tryouts. He was determined to get back and even learned how to shoot with his left hand. He came back after break and led our to 6 straight wins before losing in the finals. The season has ended now, but every time I walk by the gym and hear a ball bouncing, there is only one player I expect it to be- Taeho Kim."
EAE wants to acknowledge Taeho Kim and his teammates on a great season. EAE wants to cheer for all the White Division teams (ICS-UJB, ICS-PTK, KKFS, CDS and Dwight) and coaches on all their hard work in making these seasons fun and memorable. As always, EAE reminds you that God has given you the gifts that you have to play this incredible game of basketball. We encourage you to use these gifts and passions to make the world a better place. This season might be over but next year's champions are already working hard.
"The CDS Basketball Team is full of future potential. On this years squad, 12 of the 14 players were in either 9th or 10th grade. Lead by Sophomore PG Phillip Yoon and Sophomore G/F/C Jace Kang, they play a fast pace offense and use their quickness advantage to force a lot of turnovers. Their core members have been playing together for several seasons." -Coach Clem
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"Thank you all my teammates for fighting all the way here. I am really proud of you guys fighting for the team without any seniors just by ourselves. Also I am really sorry to be back on the team really late due to my injury. I am glad that everyone was inspired and I wish this season would be a better stairs for us to win next year. Thank you coach and teammates for wonderful basketball season."
-Eric Taeho Kim
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ROGER CHESEBORO: MAYBE CHARIOTS OF FIRE?
When Roger came to our EAE basketball training session at Shenyang International School in Northeast China, coach JJ and Luke had no idea what this kid was going to do. After talking to his high school coaches and parents, JJ and Luke discovered that basketball was not Roger’s gift. They discovered it was running. They also discovered that Roger loved music and loved Jesus. All of these new revelations got us excited about this kid. Unfortunately, China does not offer too many good opportunities for competition for aspiring running athletes at the international school ranks. The EAE coaches came up with a possible solution to help this 11th grader get some exposure. They suggested to send him to the nearby nation of Korea and train under long time legendary coach, Brian Olling of International Christian School-Uijeongbu. After a few phone calls, talks and prayer; all parties agreed on the logistics and Roger Cheseboro was on his way to Seoul.
Roger arrived in Korea and hit the ground running (literally). Roger became a contender immediately, chasing down some of Korea’s best international school runners and finishing 2nd place in a variety of races. Not too shabby for a rookie fresh off the plane. EAE wants to thank ICS-Uijeongbu and the Poirier family for hosting Roger and thank you Coach Olling for helping to make this happen.
EAE exists to encourage, train and cheer on the many thousands of expat athletes attending the many hundreds of international schools all over Asia. EAE understands how difficult it can be to be a high level athlete overseas. EAE wants all athletes to know that their gifts and passions they possess come from God and they will never go unnoticed.
Roger is now back in Shenyang with his family and back to normal life as an 11th grader. EAE is proud to help you and push you closer to achieving your goal to hopefully run in college under a scholarship. Meanwhile, it is almost basketball season. Until then; Roger, this is for you: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” Hebrews 12:1.
Keep up with EAE and check out Roger’s progress.
Roger arrived in Korea and hit the ground running (literally). Roger became a contender immediately, chasing down some of Korea’s best international school runners and finishing 2nd place in a variety of races. Not too shabby for a rookie fresh off the plane. EAE wants to thank ICS-Uijeongbu and the Poirier family for hosting Roger and thank you Coach Olling for helping to make this happen.
EAE exists to encourage, train and cheer on the many thousands of expat athletes attending the many hundreds of international schools all over Asia. EAE understands how difficult it can be to be a high level athlete overseas. EAE wants all athletes to know that their gifts and passions they possess come from God and they will never go unnoticed.
Roger is now back in Shenyang with his family and back to normal life as an 11th grader. EAE is proud to help you and push you closer to achieving your goal to hopefully run in college under a scholarship. Meanwhile, it is almost basketball season. Until then; Roger, this is for you: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” Hebrews 12:1.
Keep up with EAE and check out Roger’s progress.
