When I heard about the opportunity to represent Armenia internationally, I immediately thought of my younger brother, Declan. Growing up, as close as we were, our age difference meant we’d never compete on the same team together. Playing alongside him will be a dream come true.
I thought also about the rest of my family: my sister Estelle, dad Paul, and mom Dionne. Estelle has been a role model for me all my life and I’m excited to share this experience with her. As for my parents, giving us a life that fosters our closeness as siblings and as a whole family speaks to the love and support that is at the heart of Armenian families and their communities.
Perhaps my greatest inspiration is my grandfather Petros, whose parents were survivors of the historical tragedies in Armenia. Even since his passing he still represents the center of our family through the values he passed along. It will be a joy to honor him.
This opportunity is emotionally humbling. I'm proud to be my father’s son, proud to be a Palandjian, and proud to be Armenian. I am especially grateful to Coach Mouradian for bringing us all together as a team, and appreciate the chance to be captain. As players, we have the opportunity to represent our home country, playing the sport we love, and that is a blessing.
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