Kentucky offensive lineman Kenneth Horsey talked to the Centre College soccer camp participants about overcoming adversity. (Larry Vaught Photo)
Centre College men’s soccer coach Jeb Burch annually has one of the state’s most successful high school summer camps and was looking for a way to inspire over 350 players this week.
That’s why he turned to two University of Kentucky football players — quarterback Will Levis and offensive lineman Kenneth Horsey.
“It’s about winning and these guys know about winning,” said Burch. “The story, not the sport, is what matters. Obviously Will has a great story going to Penn State and it not working out and now doing what he is at Kentucky. Obviously Kenneth has a great story with the heart issues he had in high school and now look at what he is doing.”
“These are two outstanding players who have incredible stories. If you think about it, they are not that much older than some of these kids.”
The camp participants were split into two groups and the two UK players spent about an hour talking to each group, including a question-and-answer session with each group.
“I do not care about UK football. I care about their story because you can all relate and it can help you get through adversity and setbacks,” Burch, who had former UK/NFL kicker Tim Masthay on his coaching staff for three years, told the campers.
It was the first time either UK player had talked at a soccer camp but both said they were eager to come and share their stories, which are both compelling in different ways.
“I want to encourage you that no matter what happens, you will face adversity. That is life. It’s about what you do with it and the lessons you learn,” Horsey said.
Levis stressed the importance of not letting others discourage you or impact your belief in yourself.
“You have to almost have a twisted sense of confidence in yourself. If you don’t have that, you are putting yourself at a disadvantage,” Levis said.
