From Camper to Lacrosse Mentor: Garrett’s Journey

Discovering ARF

Garrett’s journey with the Andy Roddick Foundation (ARF) began in first grade. His mom, an educator with a tight budget, saw ARF as an opportunity for Garrett to explore new activities and meet new people. Little did they know, this would be the start of a life-changing experience.

Introduction to Lacrosse

Garrett was first introduced to lacrosse during the summer before his fourth grade. It wasn’t through a boys’ team, as one might expect, but through a girls’ team from Westlake. They came to Pecan Springs and demonstrated the sport. Garrett was instantly intrigued by this new game, which was still gaining traction in Texas.

“Was it that moment you knew that it was something that you wanted to try out at least?” I asked him.

“Yes, sir,” he replied with a smile.

Embracing Lacrosse

After that summer camp, Garrett’s passion for lacrosse grew. He joined a fall camp for Raiders Lacrosse in Round Rock and played continuously from fourth grade until his senior year of high school. Lacrosse wasn’t just a sport for Garrett; it was a community and a family. It provided him with lifelong friendships and helped shape the person he is today.

Impact of ARF

Reflecting on his experience, Garrett acknowledged that without ARF, he would never have encountered lacrosse. “There was no lacrosse in Pflugerville,” he explained. “It’s Round Rock and Austin, maybe Cedar Park and Leander. I wouldn’t have had the knowledge to just go travel to Round Rock and randomly find lacrosse.”

Garrett credits ARF for instilling confidence in him to try new things. Whether it was new foods, books, or sports, ARF encouraged a spirit of exploration and openness to new experiences.

Giving Back

Now, Garrett is back at ARF, this time as a mentor. He teaches kids the sport he loves, inspired by his own journey. “I’m doing the exact same thing that was done for me 9, 10 years ago,” he said. “It’s giving me an opportunity to give back in the way I was helped.”

A Mother’s Perspective

Garrett’s mom, Angie, also shared her thoughts on ARF’s impact. As a PE teacher in Pflugerville ISD, she appreciated the one-on-one attention and small groups ARF offered. For Garrett, ARF meant meeting new people and experiencing activities that wouldn’t have been possible otherwise.

“He blossomed when he came to the Andy Roddick Foundation in first grade,” Angie said. “He still has conversations with kids that are gonna be seniors this year.”

For parents considering ARF for their children, Garrett has a simple message: “It’s good people trying to do a good thing. They’re not trying to take anything from you. They’re trying to help your kids experience life.”

Garrett’s journey from a first-grader at ARF to a lacrosse mentor is a testament to the foundation’s positive impact. His story is a powerful reminder of the importance of giving back and helping the next generation discover their passions.