"I Act With Respect"
A spotlight of inviduals from schools, communities, and from around the world who have taken it upon themselves to "pay it forward" as AWRA Ambassadors. They are vital role models in our society, we humbly thank you, and respect you!
Norah Hoke
"I always try to have a positive impact on others!"My name is Norah Hoke and I’m currently a junior at Saratoga Springs High School. I love to play tennis and I have been part of the Girls Varsity Tennis team for 2 seasons and before that I was on the Girls JV Tennis team. I am also a member of the National Honor Society and on a competitive robotics team. I spend time volunteering with elementary students in STEM education and robotics.
How did you meet Coach Rich Johns?
I met Coach Johns when he came to a Varsity tennis practice to speak about Act With Respect Always. He would also come to our practices and give us advice on how we could improve as tennis players. Even though he isn’t the Varsity tennis coach anymore, he still takes the time to give us advice on how to improve as a player AND as a person. I really try to act on his advice, and I always appreciate it a lot!
How did you hear about Act With Respect Always?
I had always seen the Act With Respect Always signs and banners around the school but I really first learned about it when I joined the tennis team and met Coach Johns. He talked to us at our practices about being the best person that you can be on and off the court. He spreads the Act With Respect Always message to the entire tennis team and also hands out the bracelets and fliers.
How has the Act With Respect Always mission affected you personally?
I carry around the Act With Respect Always bracelet in my tennis bag to remind me to be the best person and athlete I can be. Just a little kindness and positivity can brighten up your own and someone else’s day. Because of my experience with Act With Respect Always I always pay extra attention to being a model for good sportsmanship during my tennis matches. I always try to have a positive impact on others!
Please share with us how you have, or will in the future “Pay it Forward”
Along with volunteering, I try to model sportsmanship and respect for others during tennis, such as handshakes after a tough match, cheering teammates on, never giving up on a game, and more. I encourage my teammates and friends to be their best selves. I also donate all my outgrown tennis gear to new players so I can share my passion for the sport with others!
How would you describe the Act With Respect Always mission to others?
Act With Respect Always teaches people to be their best selves and, of course, respect others around them. It also stresses the importance of always giving your best and lifting those around you up. Especially with student athletes, it’s super important to show good sportsmanship and these values are
reflected in Coach Johns message.
Would you recommend Rich to speak about Respect to others?
I 100% recommend that people should listen to Coach Johns message. I’m so glad that he continues to come and speak to the tennis team throughout our season. I’m proud that I can be a part of helping to spread his message to others. He has already changed so many lives and I know he is going to inspire so many more in the future.