Grads encouraged to pursue passion, and remember IMG Academy experience

They’ve pushed themselves for years to be the best not only on the field but in the classroom, but Friday night — a moment of rest as IMG Academy seniors cross one more accomplishment off their list: graduation.

Due to threatening forecasts earlier in the week, IMG Academy officials moved the commencement ceremony to Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, rather than the school’s stadium, but the ceremony didn’t skip a beat.

Amid the colorful flags representing countries of graduating students, several speakers recalled the challenges of striving to excel in sports and academics, but also the friendships formed with other students from around the world.

“We’ve learned to accept and respect, but the biggest thing we’ve learned is that no matter your background, your race, or your religion, we’re all equal,” Martin Jaramillo said in his senior reflection.

Looking to the future, graduates were encouraged to continue to chase their dreams and their passions.

“In front of me, I don’t only see future world leaders in sport, I also see future leaders in politics, business, medicine and beyond,” Sebastian Derby, salutatorian, said.

“Go out and be a person who makes a difference in other people’s lives,” Outstanding Educator Award winner Heather Von Seggern told graduates.

IMG Academy honored a total of 234 graduates — though several graduated early — from more than 30 countries, 50 of whom attended IMG all four years of their high school career.

This story was originally published June 2, 2017 at 10:04 PM with the headline "Grads encouraged to pursue passion, and remember IMG Academy experience."