For Ryan Hermes, playing sports was as necessary as breathing. He would do anything to stay on the field. His first concussion came in middle school. He suffered eight more before graduating. Now, his playing days over, he's left wondering, "What's next?"

At a very young age, Ryan Hermes became a master of disguise. Ever since he could tuck a football into the crook of his arm, the recent Sterling High School graduate dreamed of playing in college. Perhaps beyond.

So he repeatedly veiled his hidden injuries, just long enough to ensure he wouldn’t miss a snap.