Shaquille Howard, 16, has lived with his legal guardian Joe Walbeck, his wife and other foster children for the last three years. He is a junior volunteer firefighter in West Wheatfield Township, a wrestler at United High School, on the track team and a star football player for the Lions who just competed in the district quarter-finals. However, this past weekend, those achievements took a back seat after someone focused more on the color of his skin.

"Who would do something like that?" I've never done anything to anyone that I would deserve such a thing," said Howard.

Sunday morning, Howard and his family woke up to find a burnt cross in their back yard that was just a few yards from the house.

"It hurts to know that he is 16 years old and something like this happens," said Walbeck. "This will be with him the rest of his life. He will remember this the rest of his life I am sure."

"This shouldn't be accepted," said Howard. "People should become more educated on other ethnic groups."

The Walbecks said that state police do have a lead on who may be to blame and charges will likely be filed. For now, an exact motive is unclear. Howard's football coach said he hopes it doesn't have anything to do with Saturday's loss against Penns Manor.

"It is disturbing that something like this would happen, especially in our small community," said coach Greg Mytrysak.

Mytrysak said Howard is one of the most popular and well-liked kids at United High School and is always a positive person on and off the field. Those who know him best claim that the unfortunate incident will not stop Howard from fulfilling his dreams.

"We are very proud of him," said Walbeck. "He has come a long way in the three years he has been with us. We have big hopes for him."

Howard plans to go to college and hopes to continue his football career.