Sammy Lee is an important figure in American history and should be included in any discussion about the struggles and achievements of people of Asian descent. He was a man of many talents, overcoming discrimination, racism and poverty to become an Olympic Gold medalist. He was a pioneering figure for Asian-Americans not only in the field of diving but in athletics in general.
Teaching students about Sammy Lee is an opportunity to expose them to the experiences of individuals who fought for recognition and excellence in their field despite the obstacles stacked against them. Sammy Lee was born in Fresno, California, in 1920, and he grew up in a world where segregation was the norm. Despite this, he pursued his love of diving and was eventually awarded a scholarship to study at Occidental College.
As a young athlete, Sammy Lee encountered many hurdles, including the lack of proper training facilities and racial discrimination. He was not allowed to use the swimming pool in Brookside Park in Pasadena from which to practice, but instead, he trained in a horse trough filled with water placed in his backyard! Despite the challenges, Sammy Lee never gave up and used these experiences to drive him towards his goals.
Sammy Lee’s dedication to his craft brought him success on the national and international stage. He became the first Asian-American to win an Olympic Gold Medal, taking home the top prize in both the three-meter and ten-meter diving events at the 1948 Olympic Games in London. He also went on to win numerous other diving competitions, including five National Diving Championships between 1942 and 1952.
Sammy Lee’s life story is a testament to the resilience and determination of the human spirit. Teaching students about Sammy Lee will not only expose them to the history of Asian Americans but also inspire them to work hard, push through tough times and pursue their own passions.
There are many ways to incorporate Sammy Lee’s story into the classroom. Teachers could begin by discussing the history of Asian American discrimination and segregation, as well as the factors that made it difficult for Asian-American athletes to succeed. Students could then examine Sammy Lee’s life and achievements and explore the ways in which he overcame obstacles and became a role model for all young athletes.
