Having a chance to show that no matter your sport, sex, race, size, or where you live; believe in yourself, & you can achieve great things!
Thank you for generously supporting Whitley 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.
Volleyball teaches teamwork & self-confidence. The game isn't won by one solo player. A team gets (3) contacts to get the ball over the net & one player can't double hit, so you have to be a team. It takes communication, hustle, & having each other backs. When I step on the court, I'm confident in my training & passion to play smart & hard for my team. My size doesn't limit my ability to show up for my team because I understand a lion's mentality & have been told that I am more than enough!
I'm inspired by my mom, dad, siblings & family that show up to every game to cheer me on. My brother & sister that give me advice & guidance when I need it. My coaches that believed in me and coached me, even when they were battling major health diagnoses. My teammates that dig deep to get us out of tough games; & the USA & Pro volleyball teams that work and play hard to get volleyball recognized & pushed to the forefront of sports.
When I didn't make my middle school team, instead of giving up; I chose to keep showing up & practice with the team to improve. Two years later on my first Club Team, I received the top Club Award of the Year. The Director said that only (1) other rookie received the award before me. That moment reminded me that it’s not about the teams you don’t make, it’s about how you respond. I learned that showing up, staying focused, training hard, & making no excuses is what sets you apart. (25-SJ)
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.