Young Swimmer's Inspiring Act Of Kindness

A young swimmer's incredible act of sportsmanship proves that he is mature well beyond his 9 years.

Josh Zuchowski is perhaps the best swimmer in his age group in Florida and one of the top young swimmers in the country. One of his main rivals in the Sunshine State, 10-year-old Reese Branzell, was hospitalized in November with a mysterious bone infection.

Reese was forced to miss a recent competition, which Josh ended up winning. But instead of adding the trophy to his collection, Josh sent it to Reese.

"They said it was the single nicest act that anyone has ever done for him and his family," Josh's father, Jonathan, said. "For Reese, it helped lift his morale to think, 'Here/s my No. 1 competitor, and he's thinking about me.’ That made him feel that much better to get back into the pool and do what he loves."

Along with the trophy, Josh sent a heartwarming note to Reese:

It reads:

"I am so sorry that you have not been feeling well. Get well soon. So we can get back to battling in the pool.

I have looked up to you since I was seven. You were an inspiration for me wanting to swim fast.

I would rather get second with you not at the meet then win with you absent.

I won this trophy for you today. I hope to see back in the pool.

Your friend,
Josh"

(H/T to For The Win)