Each month Weplay honors a young athlete who best embodies sportsmanship and a passion for sports. Someone who loves to play, enjoys competition and brings that extra spark to a team. Our January Athlete of the Month achieves this and so much more. He inspires.
You see, 16-year-old Eric Mandzuch, an avid bowler from Los Angeles recently recovered from eye cancer - losing his left eye in the battle.
Just last month, the Make-A-Wish Foundation and PBA teamed up to recognize Mandzuch's strength and perseverance, hooking him up with PBA Hall of Famer and all-time titles leader Walter Ray Williams Jr,. for a round of play.
Mandzuch who averages 194, gave Williams a run for his money at Fountain Bowl in Fountain Valley, CA. during their January match. But for Mandzuch's loved ones and Weplay family, the event was a well-deserved experience for a young man who gives so much to the sport and teammates he loves.
"The thing I love most about sports is being active and actually being able to do the sport itself," wrote our humble Athlete of the Month.
For him, playing a sport is a privilege - a precious opportunity to enjoy, learn and share. And cancer or no cancer, he's got the stories to boot. "About six years ago, I ended up scoring 33 points in a semi final basketball game to take our team to the championship," shared Eric of his most prized achievement playing sports.
This spring, Mandzuch continues the ride, participating on the Junior Amateur Tour, a travel bowing league in his area. Thankfully, the Southern California teen always finds time to update and share with his Weplay network. "Weplay is a great way to meet other young athletes, talk sports and gain valuable information," he wrote.
Weplay is all the better for having a rousing youth athlete such as yourself engaging in our community. Congratualation on your Athlete of the Month honor Eric. Keep up the great work.
Tell us how Eric's story has inspired you and we'll give you 50 Weplay points for sharing! Leave your thoughts in the comment area by Friday February 11th to qualify.

