#United States #Phoenix #V Foundation #Youth Athlete #Why Not You

Celebrating a Major Fundraising Achievement: Youth Athlete of the Year

The Youth Athlete of the Year event has made headlines after successfully raising an impressive $21,660,605 for two remarkable causes — the Why Not You Foundation and the V Foundation for Cancer Research. This initiative highlights how sports not only bring communities together but also support purposeful causes.

A Night of Inspiration and Charity

This national competition was not just about athletic prowess; it was a confluence of young talent, seasoned mentors, and generous patrons united by a shared commitment to community betterment. The funds generated will be equally shared between the two foundations, which focus on education and cancer research, respectively.

The Why Not You Foundation

Founded by NFL star Russell Wilson and chart-topping artist Ciara, the Why Not You Foundation aims to combat poverty through educational programs that empower young people. Their mission revolves around providing equal educational opportunities and enhancing children's health and food security — paving the way for the next generation of leaders.

The V Foundation for Cancer Research

Established by ESPN and legendary basketball coach Jim Valvano, the V Foundation has awarded nearly $400 million in cancer research grants across North America. Their commitment to changing the landscape of cancer treatment has linked researchers to over 1,000 clinical trials, driving forward advancements in diagnostics and therapy, all under the mantra of Victory Over Cancer®.

Honoring Excellence: The Youth Athlete of the Year

In the midst of these fundraising accomplishments, the spotlight shines on Tripp, the recipient of the 2025 Youth Athlete of the Year award. At just 13 years old, Tripp is not only a versatile competitor in football, lacrosse, and basketball, but also embodies the essence of sportsmanship and teamwork. As the winner, Tripp takes home not just the title, but also a $25,000 prize for his future educational endeavors and a feature in Sports Illustrated through the brand 3BRAND.

The Role of 3BRAND

3BRAND aims to merge sport, style, and purpose, urging young athletes to adopt a Why Not You? attitude, encouraging inner confidence and community-building. Co-founded by Wilson and Ciara, this youth lifestyle brand motivates young talents to make strides in their athletic and personal journeys.

Empowering the Next Generation

The Youth Athlete of the Year campaign is not only about identifying athletic talent; it also emphasizes tenacity, teamwork, and community spirit. Throughout the event, aspiring athletes received invaluable mentorship from a distinguished roster of professional athletes, including David Robinson and Chaunté Lowe. These sessions were designed to enhance athletic skills while fostering leadership and resilience.

A Call to Action

The enthusiasm and dedication exhibited during this initiative prove that greatness is not merely a personal achievement but is often intertwined with community generosity and purpose. As the tradition continues, many wonder: who will be next?

To learn more about the Youth Athlete of the Year competition, visit colossal.org/athleteoftheyear.

About Colossal

Colossal is a leading professional fundraising organization dedicated to encouraging individuals to advocate for themselves and help those in need. Their competitions, such as Youth Athlete of the Year, create meaningful impact through engaging fundraising campaigns while supporting charitable organizations like DTCare, a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit. For more information, explore colossal.org.