The Champion Within Season 3 Episode 3 Houses Divided

In the third episode of season 3 of The Champion Within, titled "Houses Divided," viewers are introduced to several athletes who have overcome significant obstacles to achieve their dreams.

First up is a young soccer player named Zach, who came from a family of basketball players but fell in love with soccer as a child. Despite his family's initial disappointment, Zach worked hard and eventually earned a spot on a competitive travel team. However, as he got older, his parents divorced and his financial situation became more challenging. Nonetheless, Zach persevered and continued to play and excel at the sport he loved. Now a high school senior, he is being scouted by several college teams and hopes to one day play professionally.

Next, viewers meet sisters Mariah and Mikayla, who both play basketball at the high school level. Mariah was born with only one hand, but that hasn't stopped her from dominating on the court. She has learned to use her body and mind in innovative ways to overcome her physical limitations and become a fierce competitor. Meanwhile, Mikayla faces her own challenges as a biracial athlete in a predominantly white town. Despite facing racism and discrimination, she has found a supportive community on her team and has become a leader both on and off the court.

The episode also features runner Tom, who has faced mental health challenges throughout his life. After struggling with addiction and depression, Tom discovered running as a way to manage his emotions and overcome his demons. He has since completed multiple marathons and is an advocate for mental health awareness.

Finally, viewers are introduced to Hunter, a wrestler who lost both of his legs in a car accident when he was just two years old. Despite this setback, Hunter has always been determined to live a full and active life. He first got involved in wrestling in middle school and has since become a competitive athlete, earning several state championships and even wrestling against able-bodied opponents. Hunter's positive attitude and determination are an inspiration to everyone he meets.

Throughout the episode, host Lauren Thompson highlights the resilience and perseverance of these athletes, and the ways in which they have overcome challenges and found success both on and off the field. Their stories serve as a reminder that, with hard work and determination, anything is possible.