by Elia McKnight, Electrical Occupations Junior

While some schools claim that the pandemic has taken a toll on participation in many extracurricular activities, this is not true for one LCCTC student; he continues to pursue his many passions and previous hobbies as he develops skills for his future career. A senior in Construction Trades, this student has been heavily involved in New Wilmington’s soccer, track and field as a pole vaulter, and both concert and marching band — in which he plays the snare drum. He is also an active participant in his church’s youth group and, on the side, assists with catering for weddings. The busy student, able to juggle his many pastimes, is Willum Sheffler.

In an interview, Sheffler was asked, “Have you ever thought you had too much on your plate?” His response was that he had once considered it, but he was determined to push through.

However, he was able to find an agreeable resolution, “With special thanks to my parents’ support.” He proudly shares that his parents are always in his corner, happy to cheer him on — no matter the task at hand.

Recently, Sheffler had an important soccer game on the same evening as one of the biggest band performances of the year. When many others would have prioritized one over the other for convenience’ sake, Sheffler decided to keep his promise to both organizations. He joined his teammates in the soccer game right after school, switched from one uniform to the other and was soon on his way to the evening’s obligation, The Lawrence County Band Festival. Once there, he sprinted across the field, snare drum in hand, in step and just in time to perform with the Marching Greyhound Band’s percussion section during their performance at the end of the festival! The band played phenomenally, and for his effort and hustle, Lawrence County Sportsnet awarded Sheffler with the Mahle Chiropractic “Play of the Game” T-shirt.

I think we can all agree that this kind of dedication is an inspiring example of time used wisely, and LCCTC is proud to claim him as our own.