Football has been Elijah’s passion since he was 3. Not only is he successful on the field but also in the classroom. He’s exceptional
You decide who will be named Youth Athlete of the Year to take home $25,000 and represent 3Brand in Sports Illustrated and on CBS
What is Youth Athlete of the Year?
Learn MoreHe loves the moment of being a mystery from the classroom onto the field. People may see him as the smart kid, but once he steps on the field, he gets to show that he can be just as determined, competitive, and successful as a football player. He loves proving that being successful in the classroom and on the field can go hand in hand.
James Harrison inspires him because of his incredible work ethic and determination. Harrison was considered undersized, but he never allowed that to define what he could accomplish. He continued to work, compete, and prove himself at the highest level. His journey reminds him that talent is important, but hard work, perseverance, and believing in yourself can take you even further.
One of my proudest moments was when Elijah was 8 or 9 years old playing AAU football. He came to the sideline confused and said that when the ball was snapped, everything around him seemed to move in slow motion while he was still moving fast. He even described seeing the player he was about to tackle close his eyes. His coach and I immediately realized we were witnessing something special a natural athletic gift that had always been there, but that moment made it undeniable.
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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.