Provo, Utah – Under crisp autumn skies, more than a thousand sixth graders from across Utah gathered on BYU’s campus last Friday, October 10 for Sports Hero Day, a semiannual event hosted by the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). The event gives local youth the opportunity to meet BYU student-athletes, hear their stories, and experience the joy of athletic participation in a supportive environment.
Each school group rotated through three activity stations, which were led by student-athletes from BYU sports teams. From track and field to gymnastics to the dunk team, students engaged in fun activities that encouraged participation, effort, and teamwork. Laughter and cheers filled the fields as students and athletes celebrated every small victory.
For Olivia Maisey of the dunk team, the goal was simple but meaningful. “We wanted the sixth graders to feel involved in BYU athletics and to learn about different sports,” she said. “Being around athletes can help them see that sports are about more than winning—they can help your mental health, teach teamwork, and give you fun experiences.”
Raygan Peterson, from the women’s cross country team, said the students’ courage was the most inspiring part of the day. “My favorite part of Sports Hero Day is watching these kids try things with no fear. Each of them has their own struggles that make it so they can’t do anything perfectly. Despite this, they step up to the line ready to try an event to the best of their abilities. They show me that I don’t have to have perfect situations to always try my best. While I can’t control my circumstances, I can control my attitude and effort.”
Daisy Stephenson, a member of the gymnastics team, loved the kids’ energy. “It was so fun to cheer them on and watch them cheer for each other. Their energy and excitement were contagious,” she said. She hopes the sixth graders took home the importance of challenging themselves to step out of their comfort zones, even when it seems daunting. “A lot of the kids were uncertain about our station, but with every turn they got more confident and creative,” she expressed. “I hope the kids remember the feeling that followed conquering their fears and continue to push themselves.”
The day ended with a spirited pep rally from prominent BYU athletes, including Olympic athlete and BYU track and field member James Corrigan, who was once just like these sixth graders. “I hope the kids I met remember that while we overestimate what we can do in a day, we tend to underestimate what we can accomplish in a year. They can do things they never imagined in a short period of time like one to two years.”
Bo Hickman, another member of the track and field team, reflected on the lasting impact of the day. “Seeing the kids light up after throwing a ball or running a lap helped me realize how much joy there is in small victories. I hope they left feeling loved, accomplished, and confident in themselves.”
As buses rolled away and the cheers faded into the crisp fall air, one truth lingered—Sports Hero Day isn’t just about sports. It’s about connection, confidence, and the courage to dream bigger.