by Jeremiah Hatcher
The Paducah Sun
November 14, 2023
Used with permission.
Overcoming life-changing moments can be challenging for some. For Shepherd Esper, a Paducah Tilghman senior and this week’s Murray State Teen of the Week, overcoming adversity came easy at a young age.
Esper has enjoyed playing sports since the fifth-grade, including soccer, baseball, basketball, and golf. Despite having trochlear dysplasia, a genetic condition causing inadequate bone stability and lateral patella translation, he never let it stop him from playing sports.
“I lived with this fact and continued to play soccer,” Esper said. “I did that until my kneecap on my left leg became so loose that it went out at least three times during the season.”
After undergoing knee surgery and physical therapy, Esper thought he would never be able to participate in sports again. However, a family friend suggested he try out as a kicker for his school’s football team.
“He told me since I have a strong leg and kicking takes less agility than soccer, I should try it out,” Esper said.
Esper persevered and earned a spot as the varsity kicker for his school. He was awarded the Rob Bironas Award for his outstanding performance during his senior season in the regular games. Esper has an impeccable record with a 100% success rate for point-after-touchdowns.
In addition to his athleticism, Esper is also a member of various clubs and organizations at Tilghman High School, including FBLA, Paducah Tilghman Bell Staff, and Rotary Interact Club. He is also a founding member of Young Life, a group at the school that supports teenagers.
“I like being in different clubs and organizations,” Esper said. “It helps me with my academics and social life. It’s important for me to make sure I succeed, and having a hand in different things helps me with that.”
Patti Slankard, an English teacher at Paducah Tilghman, said Esper is excellent in and out of the classroom — going above and beyond for teachers and students.
“Shep is a very mature young adult,” Slankard said. “He is extremely well-liked by his teachers and peers. He is also a natural leader who leads by example.”
Slankard noted that Esper is also actively involved in the community.
“Shep works closely with Starfish Orphan Ministries, volunteering locally,” she said. “During a mission trip to El Salvador, he delivered food to the homeless and assisted in building three homes for needy families.”
Esper’s advice? “Remember your ‘Why.’ ”
“Even though things can get hard, never give up,” Esper explained. “If you always strive and stick with it, you’ll always be successful.”