Zayel is soccer obsessed! He is an all-star on and off the pitch. He embodies what it means to be a student athlete both at home & school.
Thank you for generously supporting Zayel 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.
Zayel plays soccer, boxing, and tennis all year round. Soccer is his favorite because it’s fun to play together with his team on the pitch and with friends during school. He loves boxing because it is allows him to test his limits and express himself. When he’s upset about something Zayel says “put it on the bag”. Tennis is his hobby, he feels he is naturally good at it and thinks it’s a fun side sport to do with his family and friends.
“Cristiano Ronaldo because he comes from humble beginnings. He’s a great soccer player and his playing style is not too flashy. His playing style makes me feel like I can do it.” Zayel also respects and admires all the positive influences in his life. He has great relationships with his soccer coaches, boxing trainers, and Boy & Girls Club counselors.
As a parent, I am most proud of Zayel’s attitude, discipline, and self/social responsibility that he shows everyday. He takes his learning from sports and applies them both in real life and when he’s playing. His 1st year of competitive soccer, it started off a little rocky and he struggled to keep up with other kids initially. But he made his own decision to dedicate time with small daily choices to get better. After 1 season, he tried out for a new club and made a pre-MLS premier team!
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.