Thank you for generously supporting Garrison 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 Martial Arts is how it’s made me more capable of defending myself and others. The discipline it teaches has shaped who I am, helping me stay focused and driven. I’ve learned life skills like confidence, leadership, mental toughness, and perseverance. I also value the bonds formed with opponents, built on mutual respect. Most of all, I’m grateful for the future Martial Arts has given me and the path it’s set me on.
Someone who truly inspires me is Yirme Brown. His dedication to Martial Arts and his ability to break barriers with grace and strength is incredible. I’ve watched him compete with great accomplishment, but what stands out even more is how he inspires others. He’s motivated so many kids, myself included, to chase our dreams and believe in what’s possible. His personality, work ethic, and heart make him someone I deeply admire both on and off the mat.
I have so many moments that stand out, but if I had to choose one, it’s watching Garrison follow her dreams. At just 14, she set a goal to own a martial arts school and with the help of family, she made it happen. My proudest moment isn’t from watching her compete, but from seeing the joy she has in training her students. She’s not only teaching them how to score points in a sparring ring, but more importantly, how to be respectful and genuinely good people on and off the mat.
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.