Earlier this month, it was time to host one of the Elite Youth Tour’s biggest events, Battle Royale. And there was a moment that filled my heart and brought me to tears this year.

It happened during the final game of the U-12 boys championship, a match between two incredibly talented young athletes, Nehemiah Keefer and Henry Mann. These two boys had worked so hard to reach this point, and it all came down to the 10th frame—a moment of pure, raw competition.

Nehemiah needed the first strike in the 10th to secure the win. The pressure was immense, but with the determination only a true competitor can muster, he threw that strike. The excitement in his face was electric. He knew he had just clinched one of his biggest victories. He raised his arms up with such glory. It was such a triumphant moment, the kind every young athlete dreams about.

But then, something remarkable happened – that took the victory to a whole new level. As Nehemiah celebrated, he glanced back and saw Henry becoming emotional.

Henry had just realized in that instant that he hadn’t done enough to win. And the weight of that realization had hit him hard. For any athlete, the pain of losing can be overwhelming, and especially so at that young age. 

So, instead of soaking in his victory and focusing on his own next frame, Nehemiah did something that truly embodies the spirit of the Elite Youth Tour. He walked over to where Henry was standing, tears in his eyes – and, without hesitation, put his arms around him, giving him a big hug.

In that moment, Nehemiah showed incredible empathy and sportsmanship, traits that are far more valuable than any trophy or title.

This moment is everything the Elite Youth Tour stands for. To see an 11-year-old like Nehemiah naturally understand and demonstrate empathy was a heartwarming reminder of what really matters in life. The win is something he’ll remember, but what he – and everyone who witnessed it – will remember even more is how he made Henry feel in that moment.

Moments like this reaffirm the mission of the Elite Youth Tour, to develop leaders. Our goal isn’t just to create better bowlers. We’re a leadership organization, and through these events, we’re helping young athletes understand their power and impact.

EYT is about winning with grace and integrity like that.

In a world that often celebrates winning above all else, we strive to teach these young athletes that their character, and their ability to support their peers are the truest markers of success.

Whenever I think back to this last Battle Royale, I will remember the weekend’s excitement, the skill of the young athletes, and the joy of the winners. But, more than anything, I will think about that hug between Nehemiah and Henry. Such a small gesture spoke volumes about the kind of community we’re building here at the Elite Youth Tour. A community where winning is celebrated, but where kindness, empathy, and leadership are at the center. Where youth are learning their role in the world and realizing that they truly can make a difference.

Every event, every match, and every interaction is an opportunity to learn and grow, not just as athletes – but as individuals. And that’s what being a champion is all about.

It’s okay to celebrate wins, but it’s also important to have empathy. To recognize that what you’re experiencing might also be affecting someone else’s heart, and it’s okay to be there for them.

Nehemiah’s actions during that final game showed that it’s possible to be both a fierce competitor and a compassionate human being, and that’s a lesson we can all take to heart. I hope that all EYT champions, present and future, understand this lesson. 

And I carry that moment with me as a reminder of what we’re really striving for. I am sure others who were there that day, and witnessed this moment, will carry it with them too.