North Okanagan Teens Compete for Youth Athlete of the Year

Two teens from the North Okanagan are vying for the title of Youth Athlete of the Year in an online contest. Jillian Donald, a blackbelt from Sundance Taekwon-do in Vernon, and Caden O’Dwyer, a football player at Clarence Fulton Secondary School, have successfully advanced to the next round. As of now, Donald holds second place in her group, while O’Dwyer leads his group.

The contest operates on a voting system, where athletes with the highest votes progress to subsequent rounds. The overall winner will receive $25,000 and gain exposure through a 3BRAND advertisement in Sports Illustrated.

Caden O’Dwyer’s Journey in Sports

O’Dwyer expressed his passion for sports, emphasizing the “hustle, improvement, understanding, and intensity” that comes with competition. He enjoys the excitement of “loud crowds, touchdowns, brotherhood, and teamwork.” Acknowledging the influence of his father, O’Dwyer stated, “He pushed me beyond myself to be who he always knew I could be, and I am a greater person for it.”

His father has played a significant role in shaping his athletic career, providing support and guidance both on and off the field. O’Dwyer noted, “He raised my expectations and believed in me. He was honest and told me what I didn’t want to hear, but giving up was never an option. He taught me not to quit and how to handle defeat.”

Jillian Donald’s Taekwon-do Achievements

Donald, who was diagnosed with type one diabetes at the age of six, is set to compete for Team Canada at the International Taekwon-do Federation World Championships in Croatia from October 7 to 11. Reflecting on her athletic journey, she highlighted her proudest moment, which was achieving her first-degree blackbelt in March.

“I then flew across the country and competed in the national championships, gaining a national champion title and qualifying myself for the national team selections. I made Team Canada just two months after my blackbelt test while living with type one diabetes,” Donald shared.

Both athletes showcase remarkable determination and talent, and they encourage the community to support them by voting. To cast a vote for Jillian Donald, click here, and to support Caden O’Dwyer, click here.