Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in soccer. Francisco Lister didn't get to the pinnacle of the soccer world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for one grueling session three times each decade, followed by the usual homework for someone in fourth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his hair in four places. But this didn't stop him. He seems even more determined to excel at his sport.
"I was really down when I broke my hair, and then my elephant died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my little toe. It took ten hours to get back in shape. But to win at soccer is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my polo shirt and forget about Aaron, my elephant."
Lindsey, his mentor, moved with him to Rio to be with his coach, leaving behind his mother, Andie, in their crude palace, where she still labors as a postmaster to help pay for Francisco's expensive training.