Kenyon’s Comeback: A High School Sports Story

Kenyon was looking forward to his sophomore football season. He was spending long hours at practice, in the weight room and on the field.

But at the beginning of the season, Kenyon began feeling pain in his knees. At first, he wore knee braces and played through the pain, often for three games a week.

After the season, an MRI confirmed what the pain signaled all along — both ACLs were torn and both menisci were damaged. At 15 years old, Kenyon had played most of the season with completely torn ligaments in both legs, requiring full reconstructive surgery. That fall, Kenyon had his first knee surgery — the beginning of an 18-month journey to recovery.

A Different Kind of School Year

Kenyon had always been a responsible student. He showed up, stayed organized and handled his work without being reminded. But the physical recovery ahead was demanding in a way that didn’t align with the rigid structure of a traditional school day.

His family knew what Iowa Virtual Academy (IAVA) could offer because Kenyon’s older brother had thrived there. The online structure meant the schedule could adapt to the student instead of the other way around. And Kenyon was able to maintain college athletics eligibility thanks to IAVA’s curriculum being NCAA-approved.

“I found out the credits would count for college sports,” he said. “That was all I needed to hear.”

After surgery, Kenyon had to rearrange his schedule with multiple physical therapy sessions each week. As he balanced school and recovery, Kenyon had to relearn how to walk and regain his strength.

IAVA gave Kenyon the ability to structure his schoolwork around these commitments. Classes were still rigorous, deadlines still mattered and communication with teachers remained important. But thanks to a virtual learning environment, he could attend his appointments, rest when he needed to and return to assignments when he was able to focus.

Kenyon was told the recovery would likely be the most difficult thing he’d ever experience — and it certainly was. The most impactful advice he received during his recovery was that his identity was not found as a football player. Kenyon credits God for his ability to grow spiritually, mentally and physically through his injuries.

This stronger sense of self eased his transition into different roles among the team. During his junior season, Kenyon’s coach invited him into the press box and asked him to take on a leadership role analyzing offenses for the defensive coordinator. His knowledge and love of the game continued to grow as he supported his team.

What Comes Next

Kenyon has developed an interest in studying sports medicine and physical therapy at college after graduating from IAVA. The therapists and trainers he worked with over the past year left a lasting impression.

This spring, Kenyon played as a linebacker in his first 7-on-7 football tournament. He has also been taking live 1-on-1 reps as a defensive end.

His first taste of competition after completing physical therapy felt great, and he continues to hold big expectations for his senior year. Kenyon is excited to achieve his goals as he keeps chasing his dream of playing college ball.

His injuries changed Kenyon’s path. IAVA helps him stay the course.

Learn more about IAVA’s NCAA-approved curriculum on our website.

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