Michael Allen, had stole 67 bases, led with heart, leveled up his game, and shows what’s possible when talent meets dedication.
Thank you for generously supporting Michael 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.
Michael likes the hard work, growth, teamwork, friendship, excitement of play, and most importantly focus and strategy. “ I feel like it’s a chess game… but just with sweat!”
My family inspires me—especially seeing how proud they are when I’m on the field. I look up to players who look like me and prove we belong in the game of baseball. Knowing my great-grandfather played in the Negro Leagues motivates me to keep his legacy alive. Every time I play, I feel like I’m honoring his journey and making my own mark.
One of my proudest moments was when Michael played in a tournament deep in a rural area where the tension was thick—you could feel the stares and sense the kids weren’t welcome. As the lead batter, the pressure was on him to represent, to walk onto the field with confidence, and prove through his play he belonged. Despite the negative comments and intimidating glares from adults in the stands, Michael didn’t flinch. He responded the best way possible—with a powerful home run out of the park.
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.