One-handed receiver sets Pennsylvania school yardage record
Great story here: Kris Silbaugh of Cambridge Springs (Pennsylvania) High School has become his school’s leading receiver despite having only one hand.
Silbaugh was born without a left hand. “It was just some sort of birth defect,” Silbaugh told USA Today. “Nothing was wrong. It has never stopped me. I just don’t let it; never have.”
His 43-yard touchdown catch during a blowout of Saegertown (Pennsylvania) High was enough to put Silbaugh over the top, with 915 career yards at Cambridge Springs.
Growing up, Silbaugh was the kind of kid who didn’t let his situation define him. He simply taught himself how to do everything he needed to do with one hand, and by the time he was ready for football, he knew exactly how to succeed.
“I knew I wanted to be a receiver, but I didn’t know how everyone would react when I tried out,” Silbaugh said. “Finally, I just kind of went for it. I knew I would have to be better than good. I still remember Coach (Clint) Rauscher, who was the head coach at the time, and he was a little shocked when I said I was a receiver.”
Silbaugh claims a 4.4 40-yard dash time, and colleges have shown interest. For now, though, he’s focused on his current season. Based on what was expected of him, every yard is a bonus.
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Jay Busbee is a writer for Yahoo Sports. Contact him at [email protected] or find him on Twitter.
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