Teen Athletes Compete in Sports Illustrated Youth of Year Contest

Several young athletes are making significant strides and gaining recognition in various sports across the United States and internationally. Australian sprinter Gout Gout, at just 17, is drawing comparisons to Usain Bolt due to his exceptional 200m times and raw talent, with Bolt himself acknowledging the challenge Gout faces in transitioning to senior competition. In Canada, 13-year-old Sawyer Nicholson is not only excelling in distance running by placing fourth overall in a major 5K race but also using her platform to support local charities, highlighting the intersection of athletic achievement and humanitarian efforts. In the U.S., multiple youths are competing for Sports Illustrated's Youth Athlete of the Year, including Avery Moreland, who overcame a serious injury to excel in softball and wrestling; Jurnee Grabrowski, a soccer and golf player balancing academics and athletics with aspirations for medical school; and 10-year-old Bryce Deblanc, a multi-sport athlete aiming for a future in professional football or basketball. These stories collectively underscore the dedication, resilience, and potential of young athletes striving for excellence and broader impact both on and off the field.