Young Goalie Logan Loewen Raises Funds for Cancer Research

A 12-year-old soccer goalie from Virgil, Canada, is turning his athletic prowess into a powerful fundraising campaign for cancer research. Logan Loewen has become a finalist in the Youth Athlete of the Year competition, organized by the Colossal platform and sponsored by Sports Illustrated. This initiative aims to support cancer-related causes, and Logan is raising funds in honor of his late grandmother, Maria Loewen, who passed away from cancer in February.

Logan is one of five finalists in a competition that began with 20 young athletes. The winner will receive a feature advertisement in Sports Illustrated along with a prize of $25,000 USD. Currently, Logan is supporting two charities: the V Foundation for Cancer Research and the Why Not You Foundation. His motivation stems from the experience of his grandmother, who faced a challenging battle with gastrointestinal cancer.

Maria was diagnosed in March 2023 and underwent chemotherapy and radiation for six months. Although she initially responded well to treatment, the cancer returned in December, spreading to her lymph nodes. She passed away just two months later, leaving a profound impact on her family. Logan’s mother, Ella Loewen, recalled how Maria lived in Germany and could visit Canada only once a year, but they maintained a close bond through virtual conversations.

Logan’s soccer journey has already been impressive for someone so young. He plays goalkeeper for Toca Pro FC, a year-round travel team in Mississauga. Prior to that, he played for two years with Club Roma in St. Catharines and started in the local league in Niagara-on-the-Lake. His proudest moment came in May when he helped Toca Pro FC clinch a tournament victory in Miami, which featured international teams.

Logan’s dedication to soccer extends beyond regular practice. He trains three to four times a week, incorporating strength and technical sessions online with a coach based in Italy. He also works with a dedicated goalie coach in Niagara Falls and participated in swim fitness sessions during the summer. Despite his demanding schedule, which includes school, Logan remains committed and enthusiastic, never complaining about the workload.

While the competition is fierce, Logan emphasizes that the fundraiser represents more than just the desire to win. It serves as a tribute to his grandmother, and he hopes to raise as much money as possible. As voting for the competition closes on September 4, 2025, Logan encourages supporters to contribute. Each donation of $1 USD counts as one vote, with larger contributions yielding additional votes. The winner will be announced on October 17, 2025.

Logan’s plans for the potential prize include funding his training trip to Italy and further supporting cancer-related initiatives. He expressed a mix of nerves and excitement about the outcome, recognizing that many others share his ambition. Ultimately, his focus remains on making a difference in memory of his beloved grandmother.

For those interested in supporting Logan’s campaign, donations can be made at athleteoftheyear.org/2025/logan-79a1.