Wrestling is a sport that gives young men and women an opportunity to be champions for life. This year's 2016 Medal of Courage award winner, Jacob Pourchot, is one of those champions. Born with Cerebral Palsy, Jacob has struggled with basic body movement, muscle control, balance and coordination, ever since he started walking. This however has not in any way hindered his passion and determination to be a high school athlete. Jacob says, "I have never let my disability stop me. When I set my sights on something, I'm going to put my heart and soul into it. If I fall, it's not a big deal. I would rather try and fail miserably then live my life not even trying. " Jacob further states: "I have to thank my family for helping to push me to do my best and for teaching me to follow my dreams, no matter how big or impossible they may appear. My mother Stacey is always doing whatever she can to ensure that my older brother and I have a great life. She is my biggest fan. I also have my older brother Trevor to thank, who has pushed me to be tough and strong. He has given me the drive to do whatever I wanted to do and helped me fuel my flame to push beyond the impossible, when others didn't believe in me." Jacob started participating in sports when he was only seven years old, playing indoor soccer at the local YMCA. He loved playing goalie and used a walker to help get him around the field. He's enjoyed horseback riding and played baseball with the Cubs in the Miracle League. It was during his eighth grade year when a friend introduced him to the sport of wrestling. After four years with the sport, Jacob won his first high school match against an opponent from Mt. Zion at 145 pounds, by fall no less. Jacob continued to wrestle and has served as team manager for both wrestling and football. During his junior year, he was allowed to suit up for football and played in a few games at the JV level. Jacob Pourchot has overcome one of life's greatest physical challenges to participate in the world's oldest sport. The sport of wrestling has helped young men and women develop qualities such as self-esteem, sportsmanship, work ethic and leadership, all qualities that Jacob clearly has. Jacob reminds us that "life is a lesson. If you get knocked down, get back up and never stop trying. I do that every single day."