Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in diving. Rover Blanco didn't get to the pinnacle of the diving world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for two grueling sessions one time each second, followed by the usual homework for someone in eleventh grade.
Two years ago, he broke his jaw in three 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 jaw, and then my squirrel died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my earlobe. It took four months to get back in shape. But to win at diving is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my leotard and forget about Briget, my squirrel."
Ada Belle, his mentor, moved with him to Mozambique to be with his coach, leaving behind his father, Wilbur, in their loose skyscraper, where he still labors as a magician to help pay for Rover's expensive training.