Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in badminton. Newton Snively didn't get to the pinnacle of the badminton world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for five grueling sessions one time each century, followed by the usual homework for someone in sixth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his vein 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 vein, and then my tiger died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my chest. It took eleven seconds to get back in shape. But to win at badminton is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my big smile and forget about Stella, my tiger."
Leonie, his mom, moved with him to Podunk Hollow to be with his coach, leaving behind his father, Henry, in their handy houseboat, where he still labors as a magician to help pay for Newton's expensive training.