Special Speaker Inspires Middle School Students to Be Great

“I was dealt a bad hand in life but I was not afraid to fail,” said Rohan Murphy to Middle School students during a special presentation on January 16, 2018. Rohan is a nationally recognized youth speaker and has spoken about his challenges – and successes – in more than 40 states. 
Born with a birth defect, he lost both of his legs when he was 4 years old and was homeschooled until he was in third grade. “When I started going to school, that’s when I realized I was different. There were so many things I couldn’t do that my friends could, like ride bikes and play sports,” recalled Rohan.
 
But, when he was in eighth grade, his life changed thanks to one teacher, his physical education teacher, and later coach. Rohan became the team manager for the middle school soccer and wrestling teams, finally fulfilling his dream to be part of a sports team. His teacher saw the potential and passion in him and inspired Rohan to train to wrestle, despite not having legs. Learning to wrestle was not easy as Rohan first had to get comfortable not using his prosthetic legs. “I was embarrassed and insecure about being different so I always wore the prosthetic legs. But I got to the point where I realized I have to be who I am and hoped my friends would embrace me and accept me.”
 
In ninth grade, Rohan tried out for the high school wrestling team and finally found his place. “At the first practice, all of my new teammates shook my hand and said it was great to have me on the team. For the first time, I felt accepted.”
 
Throughout high school, Rohan continued to push himself to be great, to overcome his disability and be a successful wrestler. “Legs or no legs, I was going to succeed.” He continued his training, attended a 28-day wrestling camp, and won the high school wrestling team awards for most improved wrestler and most valuable player (twice). Rohan went on to wrestle as a Division 1 athlete at Penn State University, earning three varsity letters. He also participated in the Paralympic weightlifting events and was featured in Nike’s “No Excuses” campaign.
 
His journey is one of triumph in the face of adversity. Before receiving a standing ovation from Middle School students and faculty, Rohan’s inspirational messages were heard loud and clear. “All of you have a choice for what you do in life. Choose to be great. Be inclusive, not exclusive. Don’t be afraid of failing.” 
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An independent school for students in grades 6-12