It was Senior Night at Cedar Rapids Xavier Friday. A night filled with a lot of emotion, a lot of respect, and just as likely, no shortage of tears.
Kyle Jacoby was one of five Xavier senior basketball players honored, and he received – by my count – four standing ovations. They were much deserved. Jacoby was diagnosed with luekemia 11 months ago, and watched from the sidelines this season as his beloved teammates battled through a 7-14 regular season. The kid is a champion, through and through, and doing quite well now as he faces three more years of treatment for the unrelenting blood cell cancer.
I will offer what I hope is an insightful piece detailing his struggle in Monday’s Gazette. It’s a story of courage and perseverance by a bright, soft-spoken, humble 17-year-old young man who deserves admiration and salutation. Not that he would ask for any of it. He spoke only of the support he’s received from his family, teammates, coaches and friends, and his love of basketball. Kyle certainly picked up a fan in this corner.
Tags: Cedar Rapids Xaiver, Kyle Jacoby, luekemia
