Matthew fell in love with baseball after getting sick in 2021. He grinds daily at the sport that lets him maintain his childhood
You decide who will be named Youth Athlete of the Year, featured in a 3BRAND ad in Sports Illustrated, and take home $25,000
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"I love playing baseball because it allows me to feel like a normal kid for a couple of hours. I get to spend time with my friends and for that time, it's like I'm not sick." In a life where Matthew needs daily accommodations and assistance, baseball gives Matthew a chance to have some independence, which is so important to his development and growth as a person and athlete.
"My mom because she is a kind person and she will help anyone no matter the situation. She helps me become a better person."
On June 21, 2025, in his third year of baseball, Matthew hit his first homerun. For some kids, at this age, homeruns come easy. For others, that outfield fence is so far away. For Matthew, that homerun was the culmination of all the hardwork he had put in both on and off the field: all the lessons, all the medical tests and treatments, all the sacrifices. After so many struggles, this kid finally got a victory, and we are so proud of how much he went through to have that moment.
Vote for Matthew to become the Youth Athlete of the Year while supporting two great causes! Cast your free daily vote below, or make an even bigger impact when you vote by donation—supporting the V Foundation for Cancer Research and Why Not You Foundation.
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.
