Zachary Fridley

Firefighter, policeman, astronaut, detective. These are the usual childhood dreams of grandeur in adulthood. But Zachary Fridley, a sixth grader at Saltsburg Elementary, surprised me with his aspirations of becoming an ophthalmologist or eye surgeon. Seeing my stunned expression, Zach quickly explained that he has wanted to help people as early as second grade. For his entire academic career at Saltsburg Elementary, Zach has maintained straight As with only an occasional B. He is an avid reader, which isn’t always the case with boys his age. His favorite reading materials are the kids’ Great Illustrated Classics series, fantasy novels, and comic books. He also enjoys using the computer for school work and entertainment. Most of his encouragement toward excellence comes from his parents Sam and Karen. Zach’s dad stated, “I push these boys to do their best and I hardly ever have to push Zach.”

Besides academics, Zach excels at many other things. Since fourth grade he has played alto sax and he currently sings in the school choir. This spring, he will portray an orphan in the high school’s presentation of Oliver Twist. He also participates in Boy Scouts of America. He joined primarily because he enjoys hunting and hiking so much. Presently he is ranked Tenderfoot, but his ambition is to achieve Eagle Scout someday. His interests also include many sports – baseball, football, and swimming. This spring he hopes to play baseball again for his sixth year running. He also hopes to play football this fall for the seventh grade team. However, swimming is the sport that Zach has participated in the longest; he has had lessons ever since he was two years old. Last summer, during Boy Scout camp, he passed the advanced swimmer’s test, which included rigorous lengths and lifesaving techniques; and when he gets to high school, he plans to be a member of the swim team. Perhaps the most amazing aspect of Zach’s life is his dedication to his faith at such a young age. He and his family attend the St. Simon and Jude Catholic Church in Blairsville. Once again his father, Sam, emphasized how proud he is of his son who reads his Bible every night and “takes it seriously.”

When asked to sum up his life in one sentence Zach stated, “I’m a very busy kid.” Clearly, he is an ambitious one as well. From Eagle Scout awards to high school swim team to ophthalmology, he has a future full of promise. As a child already dedicated to excellence, he is sure to amaze the world.