George Rogers Clark freshman Molly Franklin was determined to lead by example as she fought for the things she loves, no matter what was thrown her way.

The hard work has paid off.

Franklin was named to Tom Leach’s Kentucky All-Resilient Team.

This honor is awarded to student-athletes who have overcome adversity in their lives while competing and often succeeding in sports within the last calendar year.

Nominees are selected by athletic directors across the state and the honorees are recognized at the Kentucky High School Athletic Directors Association banquet.

Franklin is on the cheerleading and golf teams at GRC and was diagnosed with scoliosis at a young age, which led to her having to wear a back brace to help correct it.

She says all the hurdles life has put in her way has only motivated her more.

“Golf and cheer have big controversy over whether or not they are sports,” she said. “I played golf since I was in the sixth grade and now I’m a freshman. I’ve cheered for a long time, I don’t even remember when I started. Hearing people say that those aren’t sports makes me want to work even harder.”

In 2016, a week before her regional golf tournament, she suffered from a bicep tear in her right arm caused by a cheerleading accident which led to her missing both golf and cheerleading tournaments.

She bounced back the next year helping the golf team place 2nd in region and qualify for the state tournament for the first time in 20 years. The cheer squad won the region and also competed in state.

“If you really care about a sport or you are passionate enough about something then you wouldn’t let what anybody says or any kind of injury stop you from succeeding or doing what you love,” she sadi. “It is really an honor to be nominated for this.”

Scott Franklin, her father and golf coach at GRC, said it has been momentous to watch her grow over the years.

“It has been very special to see how she has blossomed as a young lady and athlete,” he said. “She’s very committed to her school work and she is dedicated. That means more to me than anything.”

Molly said golf gets brought up in the house hold more often than not.

“Sometimes he makes me go practice in the backyard and tells me what I do wrong and right, and I am so lucky to have him as my coach,” she said “It has helped me learn more and grow as a golfer.”

Her father feels blessed that she was nominated.

“It’s an honor for her and I think it shows that hard work can overcome injury or set backs,” he said. “Everyone on this team has learned that, even though there are obstacles in the way, you can learn and overcome them.”

Molly will be recognized for her accomplishments at the Kentucky High School Athletic Directors Association banquet this April in Louisville.