Alger County has a chance to put one of its own in the national spotlight as 13‑year‑old Braylin Calhoun — a Munising Mustang headed into eighth grade — competes for the title of Youth Athlete of the Year, a national recognition that comes with a feature in Sports Illustrated and a $25,000 prize.

Braylin helped lead his seventh grade basketball team to an undefeated season last year. Now he’s playing up a grade on a competitive AAU squad, building a reputation that stretches well beyond the U.P.

Voting begins at 1 p.m. EDT on Monday, July 28. Supporters can vote online (athleteoftheyear. org/2025/braylin-dfe8) and are encouraged to spread the word.

Braylin scored his first in‑game dunk at age 12. He is a member of the National Junior Honor Society and stays active in church and youth sports programs — often helping younger athletes during practice and at local camps.

His mother said playing for an out‑of‑state team has cost him time with friends and required real sacrifices. She also recalled an act that summed up his character: He physically lifted an opponent to help the player complete a basket.

Braylin named his mother as his top inspiration: “She is a hard worker and puts other people before herself.” He also admires NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo “because he didn’t come from a picture‑perfect family. Giannis had to work to achieve everything … and doesn’t take things for granted.”

The contest is run by colossal. org in partnership with Sports Illustrated, The V Foundation for Cancer Research, 3BRAND and the Why Not You Foundation. The winner will appear in a national advertisement and receive the $25,000 prize.

Voting opens at 1 p.m. on July 28 at athleteoftheyear.org/2025/ braylin-dfe8.