TORRANCE, Calif. — It doesn’t matter what day of the week it is, what class it is, or what time of day it is, there is one thing you can guarantee about Bishop Montgomery High School’s Justin Brooks — he is almost always wearing the same bracelet.

“I keep it on as a reminder to always keep God No. 1. And just that, Justin, you will struggle, but you will get through it,” Brooks said.

The bracelet features one of his favorite verses from the Bible: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

It’s a necessary reminder for a student like Brooks. Not only does he set a high standard in the classroom, but as Andy Marafino — the school’s director of advancement — will tell you, Brooks stands out as an incredible person as well.

“You know kids sometimes, you see the goodness in all of them. That’s why you work at a high school like this, because we have great kids,” Marafino explained. “But Justin is just a really good kid down to his core. Every fiber of his being is goodness.”

Walking down the hallways on campus, it’s how Brooks hopes to be remembered.

“As someone who had an impact on other’s lives, someone who was motivated and never gave up,” he said.

It’s a mentality that makes him an outstanding student sure, but it’s also what makes him a superb athlete and teammate too.

For Brooks, though he played many sports growing up, one stood out over the rest.  

“The one I really stuck with was football,” Brooks said. “Watching it Sunday mornings, just the feel of it, I love everything about it.”

His love of the game has motivated him in all aspects, teaching him to pursue his passions and overcome challenges.

Something that was especially helpful during his senior season, when he suffered a serious concussion on the field.

“It really sparked something in me that showed me that no matter what you go through, you can remain positive and you get through it,” Brooks said.

His bracelet serving as a personal reminder to keep going, and Brooks himself serving as an example for his fellow students.