Despite every obstacle, she leads with heart, lifts her teammates, inspires others through resilience, and never gives up on her dreams.
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
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What she loves most about volleyball is who it has helped her become. She does not believe she would be the same patient, kind, and understanding person without the lessons volleyball has taught her. Through wins, losses, difficult practices, and moments of doubt, the sport has taught her to listen, persevere, and understand the people around her. Volleyball has shaped far more than her athletic ability, it has shaped the person she is today.
Her greatest inspiration is her family. They have been the people behind the scenes through every difficult moment, from tears, setbacks, doubts, to moments when she questioned whether she was enough. They continually push her to become the best version of herself while reminding her who she is along the way. Their unwavering support has taught her resilience and given her the strength to keep moving forward, even when it is difficult.
The moment that makes me proudest was the final match of her 16s season in Orlando. After four exhausting days of two and three-set battles, her team was fighting to win the bracket. She reached a point where the exhaustion became overwhelming and began breaking down on the court, but her coach reminded her that her team needed her. She pushed through alongside her teammates, and they won. That moment showed her the strength and change it takes to be good to better.
Vote for Hayden to become the Youth Athlete of the Year while supporting a great cause! Cast your free daily vote below, or make an even bigger impact when you vote by donation supporting the Why Not You Foundation.
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.
