My name is Kayleigh Summers and I am a senior at Bishop Eustace Preparatory School in Pennsauken, NJ. For the past fourteen years, my true passion has been playing soccer. During a soccer game in late September, my nose was broken in sixteen places after an opposing players’ knee slammed into my face. I was told that I wouldn’t be back on the field for 6-8 weeks, which was devastating news. I was the senior captain on the returning state championship team and to think I was out for the season was more than I could take.
Fortunately, I received a call from a member of the boys’ soccer team who told me about the possibility of getting a mask made by Mr. Jeremy Murray at Michigan Sports & Rehab Center. I was so excited that I had my mother contact Mr. Murray immediately. After that first phone call, things moved very quickly. Mr. Murray walked us through, step by step, everything we had to do in order to get me back playing. Because I live so far from Michigan, Mr. Murray researched where I could have my mask template made, while also researching the New Jersey State Athletic Association’s rules and regulations for masks. The entire process went so smoothly that I was back on the field in just 3 weeks. Mr. Murray’s instructions on wearing and adjusting the mask were thorough and easy to follow. The mask fit perfectly and I played with it for the rest of the season and throughout the playoffs.
Mr. Murray was in constant contact with my mother and me even after he knew that the mask fit. Although Mr. Murray never met me, it was obvious how much he truly cared. My senior soccer season was saved because of Mr. Murray and I can now look forward to playing at the college level. I can’t thank him enough for getting me back on the field.
Kayleigh Summers