Emerson leads with heart, hustle, and humility—always giving 110%, lifting teammates up, and setting the standard on and off the field.
Thank you for generously supporting Emerson in this year’s competition. Your support helps empower the V Foundation for Cancer Research and the Why Not You Foundation in their respective missions to save lives and empower today's youth to become tomorrow's leaders.
What I love most about playing baseball is being behind the plate as a catcher, where I can see the whole field and be part of every play. I like working with pitchers, making big stops, and helping lead the team. I also just love being out there with my teammates, having fun, and always trying to get better
My Gigi,Penny Gwaltney, inspires me the most. She passed away five months before I was born, but I’ve always heard how much she loved baseball and wanted a boy to share it with. I feel like she’s watching me play from above—like one of the angels in the outfield.
My proudest moment isn’t just one — it’s watching Emerson celebrate others. Even when he’s in a slump, he never lets it show. As a catcher, I’ve seen him cheer on home runs from the other team and lift up teammates who didn’t get much playing time. He loves the game, but even more than that, he loves people. His heart for others is what makes me the most proud.
Colossal is a nationally registered professional fundraiser that inspires people to advocate for themselves and those in need. Through online competitions like Youth Athlete of the Year, Colossal offers participants the opportunity to make their mark while also making a big impact.