What Notre Dame Prep athletes have to say about Lucius Ahaneku
a job listing at the Catholic high school in Scottsdale, he was quick to apply and grateful for the opportunity. “It gives me joy to talk about God freely with no restrictions,” he said. “When I looked at these girls and their behavior, I could tell their parents have done a great job.” As for that “long” drive from Maricopa to Scottsdale to get ready to drive some more to the athletic contests, he revealed that “I don’t feel the pain of driving because I came to meet such wonderful people. I feel good going to work.” The connection was so great, Ahaneku was encouraged by team members to attend the season-ending celebration. Little did he know he would be honored with gifts including a variety of gift cards and a framed photograph of him with the players and coaches. “That was mind blowing,” he exclaimed. “It was a big surprise. I was not expecting that at all. I was so happy that in just a couple of months at Notre Dame my impact had been felt.” Ahaneku said he likes all the coaches, athletic department members and administrative personnel and appreciates the steps they have taken to make him feel welcome. He looks to expand his presence in the future throughout the school, including with the volleyball players. “Even if the game is not going in our favor, I want to encourage them by name and make sure their spirit stays up,” he said. He will continue to inspire youth at the school even after he finalizes plans to start a new organization in Phoenix to assist the homeless. It is a mission he has been working on since arriving in Arizona. “We want to provide food and clothing for the homeless and preach the word of God to them,” Ahaneku stated, “so we can keep them off the street. It is going to be a place of fruitfulness where God makes it proficient for his people.” Ahaneku is married with three sons. He and his family have adapted well to Maricopa. “People here are so nice,” he says. “We like the weather even though we came during the hot summer. Nigeria does not have that kind of temperatures.”
“Lucius was one of our biggest cheerleaders. He watched every one of our games with a smile on his face. We all loved him like he was a player on our team.” ALI MILLER
“Lucius is one of the sweetest, best supporters for our team! He was always there as our bus driver and even our friend. Always supporting us no matter the win or the loss, and always ready for high fives at the end of the game.” HOLLIS DALL
“Throughout my freshman tennis season, he cheered from the sidelines and encouraged everyone to do their best. Lucius was a great driver and friend to everyone.” LAUREN MANZI
“Lucius is an amazing driver and an even better person. He is kind and very trustworthy.” MARGAUX GRUHN
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February 2024 | InMaricopa.com
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