The competition is powered by Colossal, a professional fundraising organization that creates purpose-driven online competitions supporting nonprofits. In a recent Facebook post announcing the competition, Wilson shared his excitement for the returning competition, calling on enthusiastic athletes ages 7-17 across the country. The 2025 Youth Athlete of the Year winner, Tripp, received the $25,000 grand prize and was featured in the December 2025 issue of Sports Illustrated. Through competitions like Youth Athlete of the Year, Colossal has become a trusted leader in purpose-driven online competitions that spotlight exceptional people while helping communities rally behind them. Families interested in registering a young athlete or voting in the 2026 Youth Athlete of the Year competition can learn more at AthleteoftheYear.org.