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Ace Graham is a hockey player, as well as a baseball player, and the 11-year-old excels at both, but as he looks into the future, he's looking to build on his baseball career and also be named Sports Illustrated Youth Athlete of the Year.
Starting with hockey, Graham says he got involved because of a family member. "My dad just signed me up, and I just started playing."
While he likes hockey, the 11-year-old star says he is leaning toward baseball. "Two years ago, I liked hockey better, but now I like baseball more."
As he's worked on his baseball craft, he says there are a few aspects of the game that he really has grown to appreciate. "I like when I hit the ball," he says proudly. "It's so satisfying. I play catch a lot with my dad, and my uncle, I also hit in a cage."
That hard work has paid off, as Graham continues to improve. "My arm has grown a lot, so I can throw much faster now."
Graham is a first baseman by trade, and he's put in the work to be trusted by his teammates. "They just throw the ball, and I try and put myself in a position to catch it."
Growing the relationship with his teammates is also something Graham has appreciated. "I've played with my friends a lot in school, and they've been so supportive. They've been very good to me and they've helped me."
The Moden star says balancing the schedules has taken some getting used to, but Graham wouldn't change it. "It's more fun playing both, because I like both a lot."
Right now, Ace Graham is in a voting contest, and the community support has been great for Graham. "My parents vote every single day, and my family members have supported, too."
To help Graham get to the next round, people are encouraged to vote here: Ace | Youth Athlete of the Year