Doctors were blunt with Jake Skartvedt.

Suffering a sports injury with his Scoliosis – or curvature of the spine - could result in catastrophic consequences.

“The doctors said that if I got injured while playing sports that I might not be able to walk again,” said Skartvedt, an incoming senior at Azle Christian who found out he had Scoliosis in seventh grade.

It obviously wasn’t what he wanted to hear, and he didn’t take the news lightly. But keeping Skartvedt from playing sports was going to be next to impossible.

“We never noticed his back issues until he got older,” said his father, Jim Skartvedt. “We went and got him checked out and the doctor recommended he stop playing sports but after prayer and consideration, Jake felt like he needed to lead his team.”

That’s precisely what Jake has done.

He has earned letters in track, basketball, and football, where he lines up at linebacker and tight end; he might play some running back this season.

Jake even squats 475 pounds.

“It’s just amazing what he’s been able to do.” Jim said. “He has a limited range of motion, but he’s always working on his stretches. I’m proud of what he’s done so far.”

Jake’s dad isn’t the only one amazed.

“The doctors said they’ve never seen someone with this level of scoliosis be so strong.” Jake said.

When living in a culture where doubt and worry are normalized, the Skartvedt family knew they had to put their trust in God rather than stress about the risks associated with being unable to walk.

“What-ifs are always in back of your head.” Jim said. “Jake felt like he needed to lead the team and he came to the conclusion that he still wanted to play. So we just put our trust in the Lord and trust his plan.”

Many kids rely on their own strength and ability to play a good game. However, Jake makes an effort to direct the spotlight in a different direction, rather than focusing it on himself.

“The breath of my lungs is from him. He gives me everything.” Jake said. “I try not to bring the praise on me, because he is the reason I’m still playing sports.”

Although the field and track hold a special place in Jake’s heart, his true home is on the court.

“Don’t get me wrong, I love track and football, but I really love basketball,” he said.

After graduating high school, Jake hopes to go to college to continue his academic career and play basketball.