Miller Place's Brendan Lake was recently nominated for the Rohan Murphy Inspirational Wrestler of the Year Award.
Lake, a senior, received the recognition at the 52nd Annual All County Dinner. Miller Place's social media site said "Brendan Lake exemplifies everything this award stands for: resilience, heart, and the unwavering belief that hard work can overcome any barrier. His story has been an inspiration to all who have had the privilege of witnessing it."
The award goes above and beyond sports as Rohan Murphy was an American Paralympian, wrestler and now is a motivational speaker.
During his early years, Murphy was unable and unwilling to participate in sports due to his physical disability. He lost his legs at birth, however, when he was in the eighth grade, East Islip coach Ron Croteau offered Murphy a position as equipment manager for the soccer, wrestling and tennis teams. After noticing both Murphy’s dedication as manager Croteau suggested that Murphy begin wrestling. Murphy ended up becoming one of the most decorated wrestlers in East Islip Redmen history by finishing his career as a three-time All-League and two-time All-County wrestler.
Murphy walked on to wrestle at Penn State University where earned three varsity letters while at Penn State. Murphy grabbed the attention of Nike and was subsequently featured in Nike’s “No Excuses” campaign.
The award is now given to a wrestler that has shown perseverance and overcome adversity throughout their wrestling career.