Fla. teen’s bet to wear same shoes all 4 yrs of high school teaching him life lessons

Fla. teen bets to wear same shoes until graduation

LAND O’ LAKES — Four years ago, a Tampa area high school freshman told his Spanish teacher he’d wear the same pair of sneakers every day until graduation. His toes stick out of the front and plastic bags encase the shoes on rainy days, but Ben Hedblom has made good on his promise. His teacher may have to shave his head and eyebrows if Hedblom holds on until graduation next month. The 17-year-old football captain said the bet has turned into more than a joke.

Hedblom said it helped him worry less about other people’s perceptions and ended up inspiring his senior class project on the psychology behind perceptions.

Teacher Adrian Antonini left the school after the bet was made. In fact, he doesn’t remember making it, but said he may shave his head via webcam.

Information from: St. Petersburg Times, www.tampabay.com