Turning tragedy into triumph.

Two years ago Brayden Dam’s life was changed.

Hurricane Dorian ripped through the Bahamas and destroyed his childhood home.

Brayden and his family evacuated to Lakeland where he lived with his aunt and uncle.

“It was tough because everything I lost materialistically was hard, but it was replaceable. But not seeing my friends and family on a daily basis, that really hurt,” Brayden said.

ABOVE: Watch the story by Spectrum Bay News 9's Kenny Morales.

The tough transition became easier when he got back to doing what he loves – swimming.

“It definitely changed everything because without it I don’t know if I’d be where I am today, but it really helped me to get through everything,” Brayden said.

Brayden joined the swim team at George Jenkins High School two years ago, and he’s already left his mark on the program.

He qualified for state last season, and this year, he was named a captain.

“I got a text from the secretary asking if I was looking for a swimmer, I said of course and she said, Bahaman national team. And I said where’s he been all my life?” Coach Jenn Gosline said.

Brayden’s also making a splash in the classroom.

“I have a 4.3 GPA and I’m at a collegiate high school, so I take dual enrollment classes. It’s a lot different cause of the schedule, I don’t have classes all through the day. But I like it. There’s more independence and more self-determination,” Brayden said.

About Scholar Athlete

Spectrum Bay News 9 wants to recognize exemplary student athletes — teens who excel both on the field in and in the classroom.

Throughout the school year, we’ll be introducing you to a Scholar Athlete from one of the Bay area's seven counties.

Scholar Athletes are nominated and chosen by school staff and represent what the schools consider to be a prime example of hard work, dedication, and positive impact on their school communities.

Winners also receive a $1,000 scholarship toward their continued education courtesy of Spectrum Networks.