Seth Hendrix ran across the stage, stopping to give Coach Mike Vrabel a high five, as he won Athlete of the Year a few weeks ago. His excitement to receive the award and compete at Summer Games was apparent to all attendees of State Summer Games.
Seth Hendrix of Area 29, Cheatham County, received the 2023 Alan Bolick Athlete of the Year award at State Summer Games in May. After hearing his name announced as the recipient of the award, Hendrix raced to the stage to be congratulated by the crowd of athletes and supporters during the Opening Ceremony. His beaming smile and joy could be seen from all areas of Allen Arena. Hendrix was nominated for the award by Jennifer Copeland, Cheatham County Area Director.
At State Summer Games, Hendrix represented Area 29 in the powerlifting competition, showcasing both his skills and sportsmanship. He enjoys the deadlift portion of the competition the most. Hendrix spent his competition day in the Lipscomb Academy Weight Room and put forth his best efforts in the deadlift, bench press and squat sections of the competition. He also enjoyed staying at Lipscomb University and spending time with his friends and other athletes.
Hendrix has been involved with Special Olympics Tennessee for the last 12 years. In those 12 years, he has competed in basketball, flag football, tennis, track and field and powerlifting. He still competes and practices weekly in powerlifting, which has easily become a passion of his. When at competitions and practices, Hendrix enjoys seeing his friends, Unified Partners and coaches. His mother, Lori, plays a role on his coaching staff currently.
One of the highlights of Hendrix’s career was attending Special Olympics USA Games last year. He traveled to Orlando, Florida, with Team Tennessee for the Games and competed alongside 138 athletes, Unified Partners and coaches from the state. At the ESPN Wide World of Sports, Hendrix represented Team Tennessee during the powerlifting competition and brought home multiple new medals to add to his collection. Competing against over 100 athletes, Hendrix earned two gold medals and two silver medals at the Games. This represented a successful trip to the 2022 USA Games for Hendrix and all of Team Tennessee.
Coming up, Hendrix will begin powerlifting training with Coach Nina Weston after her return from Berlin, Germany, and World Games. He is excited to continue going to the gym and training with new and old friends. He is also eager to get back to competing and beating personal records in the near future.
Congratulations to our 2023 Alan Bolcik Athlete of the Year, Seth Hendrix! We are so proud of you and all you have accomplished.
