In this week's edition of This Hits Different, Shelby Cassesse tells the story of Laurel highlands basketball and football standout Rodney Gallagher, and how he is using his popularity in his hometown to give back.
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Gallagher using popularity to give back
You know him as a standout football player and all-state point guard for Laurel Highlands
A junior athlete already juggling a number of Division I offers - Rodney Gallagher's life can seem overwhelming from the outside looking in, but the teenager already seems to have things in perspective.
"I really just try to do things, just taking control of what I need to take control of, and keep my mind on all the goals that I have."
Aside from excelling as a two-sport athlete and essentially being a local celebrity - Gallagher is finding ways to make a difference.
"I just feel like I need to step up and be that person to do it."
For the last few years, Gallagher and his sister Alyssa have been selling clothing with Gallagher's name, most recently adding Laurel Highlands WPIAL Championship apparel to the inventory. All proceeds go to a different charity each year.Gallagher says the community has responded in a big way - supporting his play on the field and court, but also his efforts to give back.
"All the things we've done, and all the things I've tried to do for this town, the people will support me, having my back throughout it all is great. I just can't thank them more."
This year, all money raised will go to UPMC Children's Hospital.
"It's very sad that those kids are in the hospital and they're going through what they're going through. I just want to keep a smile on their face and do something that means a lot."
Many great local athletes have walked through the doors of children's hospital to spend time with the people inside - add Rodney Gallagher to that list. On top of a donation, he'll also visit with some of the kids.
Though his future as an athlete looks bright, Gallagher says when all is said and done on the football field, he's hoping to be right back where he started.
"I just want to stay around the game, coach, just make kids better. Make them be better than hopefully I am."
In the meantime, he says he'll continue to control the controllables, prepare for the next steps, and embrace a community that loves him right back.
"I couldn't ask for more. I've had so much fun throughout these three years. I've got another high school year to go. I'm going to have more fun. It's just something to remember. I have so many memories in the town of Uniontown. I just want to continue to be great for them."