The second Sensei Jerry Figgiani said the topic was “overcoming obstacles,” I knew the perfect guest speaker. Angel Athenas has been battling adversity her entire life, and none of it stopped her from becoming a Special Olympic World and U.S. Champion powerlifter and a Suffolk County Sports Hall of Famer. Her confidence and focus are contagious.

Students sat fixated in the dojo on stories of meeting WWE royalty – she passed around her belt, a gift from Stephanie McMahon. She spoke of winning gold in Dubai, bouncing around foster homes as a kid, and finding her true passion in the gym. By the time she was done, she was signing autographs and taking photos with every kid.

“We’re successful if we impact one kid, but I know it’s more than that,” said Chris Vaccaro, Suffolk Hall of Fame President. “Looking forward to our next leadership event!”