Jay Spencer made school history last Sunday when he became the first wrestler at St. John Paul II High School to win an Alabama state title.
But what makes that accomplishment even more impressive is that he's legally blind and has been since he was 3 years old.
From the AL.com:
Spencer was diagnosed with Leber congenital amaurosis 10, an inherited retinal degenerative disease known as LCA 10, when he was 3. He tilts his head to the right so he can see out of the corner of his left eye, where his vision is best.
Reduced vision hasn't stopped Spencer from excelling on the mat. He has qualified for three consecutive AHSAA state tournaments.
"Out of all the sports I've tried, this is probably the least challenging to pick up because wrestling is a feel sport," said Spencer, a senior who was the Falcons' starting center in football the past three seasons. "I was able to pick up on that rather quickly.
Not only did he pick it up quickly but he's now the best 160-pounder in the state of Alabama this year and after winning the state title he shared this inspiring message:
"Don't let what anyone thinks about you change how you think. As long as you believe you can do something, then you can."
Credit: USA TODAY