Baller Alert Entertainment & Lifestyle 
History will be made this year at the ESPYS, however it will be bittersweet. #ZavieonDobson will receive the Arthur Ashe Courage Award at this year’s ceremony on July 13th. The Knoxville, TN teen will be the youngest person to receive the award since its inception in 1993. Given to individuals that embody Ashe’s spirit, Dobson exemplifies Ashe’s courage.
#Zaevion was just 15-years old when he laid his life down to protect three girls. Using his body as a shield, he covered his friends so that would not experience the wrath of the bullets that were recklessly being fired into the crowd of school kids that were celebrating the holidays. Dobson traded his life for theirs.
His courageous act earned him praise from President Obama, who begged the question, “What’s our excuse for not acting?” #Zaevion’s mother, Zenobia Dobson, will accept the award on behalf of her late son. Zackelyn and Markastin, Dobson’s brothers will accompany their mother to the Los Angeles ceremony.
Zenobia remembers her son. “He would light up the room. He was just so sweet. He had a warm spirit. His spirit was awesome, amazing. He was an amazing son. He was so sweet. He would always compliment me. He would always compliment his friends” She visits her son’s grave everyday and speaks to him daily.
The fateful day on December 17th wasn’t the only time that Zaevion has been courageous. His mother recalls him stepping up to his bully as well as protecting other kids from being bullied. Zenobia “is just honored to be his mother”.
The world is honored to have had such an incredible soul. There is no greater love , than a man that will give his life for a friend.
Watch his story …
-Niko Rose
