Southport 7-year-old advances to Top 10 for Youth Athlete of the Year

SOUTHPORT, NC (WWAY) — A 7-year-old Southport athlete is in the running for a national Youth Athlete of the Year honor, with his supporters now working to help him advance to the competition’s Top 5.

Jack Kohn is currently ranked sixth in his group in the Youth Athlete of the Year competition.

The winner will receive $25,000 and represent 3Brand in Sports Illustrated and on CBS, according to the competition’s voting page.

Voting for the Top 5 ends Thursday, Sept. 17 at 8 p.m. PDT.

Kohn is a multi-sport athlete who competes with the Marlins Swim Team at Fort Caswell and Oak Island, the South Brunswick Baseball Team in Southport and Brunswick County Youth Basketball in Southport.

His nomination highlights his work ethic, kindness, sportsmanship and positive attitude.

When asked what he loves most about his sports, Kohn said he enjoys helping his teammates, making big plays and competing.

“When my relay team is behind I love swimming fast to catch us up,” Kohn said. “At basketball I like trying my best and shooting long shots. I love playing in night baseball games under the lights and wearing all of the cool gear.”

Kohn also credits his coaches and mother for inspiring him.

“I love my coaches, Coach Pleas and Coach Johnathan. They are really fun and help me learn a lot,” he said. “My mom comes to all of my games. She is so loud when she is cheering for us and it makes me laugh and run faster.”

One of the moments his family says they are most proud of came this summer when Kohn’s 8U All-Star baseball team competed in the North Carolina State Championship game.

The team lost by one run on the final play.

Despite the disappointment, Kohn kept his composure, took a breath, removed his gear and was the first player ready to shake hands with the opposing team.

His supporters say that moment demonstrated the sportsmanship and positive attitude that led to his nomination.

“Jack is the kind of teammate everyone wants by their side. He’s hardworking, kind, and brings so much heart to every team he’s on,” his nomination reads.

Kohn’s supporters are now encouraging the local community to vote as he tries to move from sixth place into the Top 5.

The voting deadline is 11 p.m. EDT Thursday, Sept. 17. Vote for Jack Kohn here.