Obama Sends Isaac Lufkin, Armless Football Kicker, A Letter Of Praise

Obama Sends Armless Football Kicker A Letter Of Praise
US President Barack Obama waves as he makes his way to board Marine One on the South Lawn of the White House on February 19, 2014 in Washington, DC. Obama is heading to Toluca, Mexico to attend the North American Leaders Summit. AFP PHOTO/Mandel NGAN (Photo credit should read MANDEL NGAN/AFP/Getty Images)
US President Barack Obama waves as he makes his way to board Marine One on the South Lawn of the White House on February 19, 2014 in Washington, DC. Obama is heading to Toluca, Mexico to attend the North American Leaders Summit. AFP PHOTO/Mandel NGAN (Photo credit should read MANDEL NGAN/AFP/Getty Images)

President Barack Obama on Wednesday sent a letter of praise to Isaac Lufkin, a high school football kicker born without arms.

The 14-year-old football player shared his dream of one day playing for the National Football League in a profile that appeared on CNN last month. Obama, in his letter to the teen, wrote that he is "inspired" by Lufkin's "courage and grit."

"Your success on and off the football field serves as a reminder of what can be achieved when we work hard and stay focused on reaching our goals," Obama wrote. "You have set a powerful example not only for your teammates, but for all Americans, and I hope you continue to aim high and strive for excellence in everything you do."

Lufkin's team had an undefeated season this year, taking the Rhode Island state freshman football title. Though he has an impressive record as a kicker, leading his division in onside kick recoveries, Lufkin said he sees himself as a defensive lineman.

Following the CNN feature, the NFL invited Lufkin and his mother to watch the Super Bowl as VIP guests, where they met former President Bill Clinton.

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