Hayley Stuckey

Hayley Stuckey - Texas
Nomination by Ashlyn Holleman
Photography by Linsey Stuckey
Issue 77 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Nomination: Hayley Stuckey, a gifted athlete and inspiring advocate, turned a lifelong stutter into strength, defying limitations. From addressing Paul Rudd’s Annual Bowling benefit to organizing a tennis tournament that raised $1000 for stuttering awareness. A member of the National Stuttering Association’s Teen Advisory Council, she leads workshops at their conferences and runs monthly zoom support groups for girls who stutter, the President of the "Sisters Who Stutter Committee." Hayley, a standout tennis player, earned accolades like #3 Texas Tennis Player of 2023 and contributes to her high school’s Varsity Tennis Team. She's making a remarkable difference, proving stuttering is okay.
​

​Photography by Linsey Stuckey

What do you wish people knew about stuttering?
I wish people understood that stuttering doesn't define me; it's just a part of who I am. It takes patience and kindness to communicate with me, and I hope others can see beyond the hesitations and appreciate the person behind the words.

How has stuttering helped you with your strengths?
Stuttering has made me a kinder and a more resilient person. It has given me a greater perspective on the value of communication and has allowed me to learn a very valuable lesson of never taking anything for granted.

How did you get involved with the National Stuttering Association?
I was doing some research about how to get further involved and share my story and that’s when I found the National Stuttering Association. At first, I started off small by simply attending one of their annual conferences. I had a really great time and met amazing people. The amazing experience I had at the National Stuttering Association contributed to my passion and desire to help individuals who stutter. The National Stuttering Association has completely changed my life, and that is something that I am forever grateful for.

What do you love about leading the Teen Advisory Council's workshops and zoom meetings?
I love leading monthly zoom meetings because it is a incredible way to connect with those who understand. It’s really cool getting to hear from a lot of people from so many different backgrounds.

What has been your favorite workshop to run and why?
My favorite workshop has been the “Stuttering and Mental Health” workshop because it sheds light on something so important that is oftentimes overlooked.

What do you do in your monthly zoom meetings?
In our sessions, we provide an open floor for girls to introduce themselves, share a fun fact or anything they'd like. Each meeting revolves around a different topic, creating dynamic discussions and fostering a sense of community. It's a safe space where every girl can be seen, heard, and connect with others who share similar experiences.

How would you describe your leadership style for these events?
I think of myself as a inclusive leader, one who makes sure that everyone’s voice is heard and no one feels left out. I try my best to spread a positive message of hope and sisterhood.

Tell us about the Sisters Who Stutter Committee & your endeavors as President.
As President I make it my number one priority to make sure everything runs smoothly. I also strive to keep the sisterhood strong. We created Sisters Who Stutter to provide a platform for girls to come together to share similar experiences from all areas and walks of life. So far it’s been really incredible, and we have girls from over 10 countries attending!

When did you start playing tennis and where are you at with it now?
I did competitive gymnastics for a long time, but when I was in seventh grade, I broke my arm. I was out of practice and couldn’t compete for many months. When I went back to the gym, nothing felt the same. Everything was harder, the girls weren’t the same, and I lost my passion. Later that year, my friend invited me to her tennis camp. From there I completely fell in love with the sport. Through tennis I’ve made some of my best friends with shared camaraderie.

What do you love most about the sport and how does it suit you?
I think that tennis suits me well because not only is it a team sport, it is an individual sport. It gives me the power to excel, develop sportsmanship, and create bonds that last. I love tennis because it is a lifetime sport, and a skill that I can use forever.

What is a favorite memory in this sport?
My favorite memory of playing tennis was when my team won the district championships. We had all worked so hard, and it was a really great moment where we all came together in unity.

What is the hardest thing you have ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
Having a stutter has always been something that has given me a lot of shame and tested my courage. For the longest time is felt like I was carrying around a bag of bricks; I felt like no one understood me, and no one knew how hard it was for me to talk. Throughout the years, I’ve learned that whether I like it or not, my stutter is a lifelong character trait that I’ve accepted. If you would’ve told me three years ago that I would be on multiple national councils and inspiring others every day I would’ve not believed you. I was able to overcome my fear of stuttering by surrounding myself with people who lift me up.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
My biggest advice for anyone struggling with something unique is to surround yourself with people who understand you and will be your biggest supporters. Even though it’s difficult at times, you are your best advocate. It is your responsibility to stand up for yourself and push for what is right.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
I want to go to Brigham Young University and major in communication disorders and minor in early childhood development. My hope is to earn my MBA and to be a certified clinician at the American Institute for Stuttering. I want to be a speech therapist because speech therapy gave me a voice I never had, and that is something I will be forever thankful for.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
I love going on evening runs and being able to disconnect to reconnect. When I am running, I am able to think and reflect on my day.

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
I'm a pretty good dog groomer.

3 Things on your bucket list
Skydiving, have kids, and start a YouTube channel.

Who do you find inspiring?
Both of my grandmas inspire me every day. They have both been through obstacles that have made them stronger. They have been such an incredible role models to me in my life and have show me the true love of Christ.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I think my ability to overcome and make amends with the past is some thing that makes me stand out to others. I am able to use my unique perspective to influence people in my life. A lot of people ask me how I do everything that I do. It is very easy to take the compliment, but after thinking about that, I realized that serving others is what lifts me the most.

Look for Hayley in issue 77 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

click here for more information on issue 77

click here to nominate an inspiring teen