Before you assume any pervasive sense of youthful entitlement, take a look at this admirable effort by Corey Williams and Hunter Miller of the Nevada B.A.S.S. Nation.
Having qualified for the Mossy Oak Fishing Bassmaster High School National Championship presented by Academy Sports & Outdoors, Oct. 22-24 at Kentucky Lake/Lake Barkley, the young anglers are on a quest to raise money for their trip. But rather than seeking handouts, these young men are earning their way.
Part of their effort has taken place during the weigh-ins the TNT Fireworks Western Regional at Lake Mead, where they offered boat wipe downs for $10. They also sold raffle tickets for a prize package that includes a $200 Visa gift card, a ProStrike Rod Rack and various Berkley baits and hooks.
We didn’t want to interrupt these industrious anglers, but B.A.S.S. Nation President Jon Stewart explained that Williams and Miller had reached out to him prior to the event and asked if they could conduct their fundraiser during tournament days. Stewart said he saw the value in not only offering a convenience service to tournament competitors, but also encouraging diligence.
“I thought it showed a lot of initiative,” Stewart said.
While the guys did the wiping, Williams’ sister Courtney and his girlfriend Tana Higley handled the collections. (Notably, Courtney is an alternate on the Nevada B.A.S.S. Nation’s high school team.)
“They’re not just relying on their parents, or their state for expenses,” Stewart said. “They’re taking it upon themselves to make sure they have enough money to get (to the Championship) and help their team.”
Great example of the kind of work ethic upon which great careers are built.
