Students in Kindergarten through 12th grade cheered loudly as American Ninja Warrior competitors Daniel Gil and Jonathan Horton made their way to center court in the ACS gymnasium on Friday, May 11. Following an exciting video highlighting their appearances on the popular television show, Gil and Horton spoke to the students about perseverance and faith at an afternoon all-school assembly.
Horton, a former world champion and Olympic medalist in gymnastics, shared his story of repeated failures in his sport before breaking through and succeeding at the highest level. “Even if you’re not the most talented,” said Horton, “you can be a winner if you work harder than everyone else and have faith in God and yourself.” Gil shared similar thoughts, telling students about how he dealt with multiple rejections auditioning for American Ninja Warrior before being invited onto the show and rising to the top of his sport. Gil passionately shared the good news of God’s love for us and the wonderful plans He has to use our individual gifts and abilities when we are willing to simply “Say yes to Him.”
Following their inspiring presentation, Gil and Horton fielded questions from students. Some asked about specific ninja course obstacles and others inquired about their training methods. When one student asked for an impromptu demonstration of their skills, the fun-loving ninjas engaged in a hand-stand contest. With lots of high-fives and a few selfies, the popular athletes left the students with big smiles, great memories, and spiritual life lessons they are sure to remember for years to come.