A young third generation Oakdale athlete – Vincent Abania – is part of a program with a chance at winning recognition as Youth Athlete of the Year. Sports Illustrated is a major sponsor of the program.

“We are so grateful to be part of the Oakdale community and for Oakdale Wrestling Club and Stampede Football,” the Abania family said in a statement regarding the competition. “Vinny’s accomplishments have given him this opportunity and the guidance from our amazing Oakdale teams and coaches.”

Among his accomplishments are: Stampede Youth Football Super Bowl Champion, two-time California State Wrestling Champion, USA National Wrestling Champion, two-time All American Athlete.

Abania was entered into the Youth Athlete of the Year competition, powered by Collosal and partnered with Sports Illustrated. He has a chance at three partnered brand deals to be featured in Sports Illustrated. Any young athletes, ages 7 to 17, can sign up, provide a picture, stats, and accomplishments, with finalists picked from there.

Abania is nine years old, and attends Valley Home Elementary School.

Voting is open through Thursday, Aug. 7. Residents who want to cast a vote for him to help him earn the Youth Athlete title can go online to: https://athleteoftheyear.org/2025/vincent-6b59