Andrean Junior Tyler Vo Honors Family Legacy Through Sports

Tyler Vo, a junior at Andrean High School, values every aspect of his life. His motivation comes from his family’s journey from Vietnam to the United States. “That’s what inspires me to excel,” he said. “I consider my current life a gift. This pushes me to be a good person, son, and teammate.”

Standing 5-foot-9 and weighing 180 pounds, Vo is a wide receiver with 38 catches for 391 yards and three touchdowns for Andrean’s football team. The team’s record stands at 6-1, maintaining an undefeated 4-0 in the Northwest Crossroads Conference.

“That’s real life,” Vo remarked. “So just try to be good in everything I do.”

Vo’s grandfather served in South Vietnam’s army, supporting the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. To escape capture by North Vietnam’s forces, the family fled at night. They escaped on a fishing boat and eventually reached the Philippines after a month without food or water. Upon arrival, they burned the boat to prevent returning to Vietnam. His grandparents, father, and uncle arrived in the U.S. in August 1978, sponsored by St. Paul Lutheran Church in Hammond. Vo’s grandmother passed away in 1981 when his grandfather was left to care for his two sons without knowing English.

Vo’s parents, Tay and Sarah, own Aqua Spa Nails in Chesterton. His family maintains strong ties with relatives in Vietnam and visited most recently before Vo started eighth grade.

Andrean coach Chris Skinner appreciates the diversity Vo brings to the team. “Our school mirrors the diversity of our area, and Vo exemplifies the ‘Andrean family.'”

Vo’s older brother, Thomas, graduated from Valparaiso and Westminster College, having played both baseball and football. He now works in supply chain management in Chicago.

Tyler Vo also contributes to the school’s baseball team but excels in football. His all-state performance last season saw him achieve 82 catches, 1,109 yards, and 12 touchdowns, leading to a Class 2A state title. This year, Vo is part of a standout receiving corps ranked No. 3 in Class 3A.

Andrean’s junior quarterback, Dylan Gore, praises Vo’s leadership. “He’s versatile. We talk every morning, building a strong relationship. Tyler’s never upset if others score. He’s supportive and upbeat.”

Skinner holds Vo in high regard: “He’s 5-9, but his route running and body control set him apart as a receiver.”

Vo’s talents are likely to take him to college. He’s received interest from schools like Harvard and Columbia. His focus on academics aligns with his family’s expectations. Vo is considering a major in pharmacy. “Going DI for college with football is my main goal,” he said.