Orion is Athlete of the Year because he lives every day with extraordinary courage, heart, and faith.
Thank you for generously supporting Orion 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.
Orion loves how his sport gives him space to grow, both on his own and as part of a team. It challenges him physically and mentally, while also giving him the chance to connect with others. Through martial arts, he’s found a sport that enables him to truly dedicate himself, persevere, and have the indomitable spirit required to achieve the unbelievable and become the best version of himself.
Orion draws his strength from his faith in God and from his dad, who taught him that there are no limits to his talent, strength, and ability to persevere with unwavering belief in himself. Orion's dad went back to school at the age of 45 to finish his undergraduate degree after dropping out after his dad died when he was 20 to help his family. He showed Orion that no matter the obstacles, success is always possible when you believe in yourself and keep showing up.
Orion was diagnosed with Autism when he was three years old. He was non-verbal, did not eat, and was overwhelmed by everyday things like walking into a store. When Orion went to his first martial arts competition and won first place in Forms, he was transformed and now speaks with confidence, carries himself with purpose, and trains with a dedication beyond his years. Orion helps others, leads with kindness, and has become someone we look up to because he never stops trying.
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.