The search for the premier high school male athlete in the Fort Collins area for the 2025-26 academic year has reached its climax, with two standout performers from Fort Collins High School competing for the coveted Blue Federal Credit Union Athlete of the Year award. This final stage of voting highlights the exceptional talent and dedication within the local high school sports scene. The community's engagement in selecting the top athlete underscores the importance of recognizing young individuals who excel across various disciplines.
This year's competition culminates in an exclusive showdown between two remarkable athletes, Cadel Ruthven and Preston Mozer, both representing Fort Collins High School. The head-to-head battle not only celebrates their individual prowess but also reflects a stellar year for the school's athletic programs. As the voting period draws to a close, anticipation builds for the announcement of the ultimate champion, who will be honored for their outstanding contributions and achievements throughout the high school sports season.
The Finalists: A Tale of Two Lambkins
The semifinal voting results have paved the way for an all-Fort Collins High School final, showcasing the depth of athletic talent at the institution. Cadel Ruthven, a dominant force in track and cross-country, secured his spot with 51.1% of the votes against Rocky Mountain swimmer Sam Lofstrom. Meanwhile, Preston Mozer, a versatile athlete excelling in both football and track, advanced by capturing 58.9% of the votes, surpassing Wellington's Tanner Gray. The final round of public voting is set to conclude on June 19, with the highly anticipated announcement of the winner scheduled for June 20 on coloradoan.com/sports.
Both Ruthven and Mozer have compiled impressive athletic records, making their selection as finalists well-deserved. Ruthven distinguished himself as a Class 5A first-team all-state athlete in both cross-country and track. His senior year was particularly remarkable, as he claimed the 5A 1-mile state track title, finished second in the 2-mile, and fourth in the 800-meter race. His individual performance contributed a significant 24 points to the Lambkins' decisive victory in the 5A team championship, and he consistently broke or lowered school records. Mozer, despite being only a sophomore, made a substantial impact across two sports. In football, he was the second-leading receiver for the 9-3 Fort Collins squad that secured a playoff win and a share of the league title. On the track, Mozer also earned 5A first-team all-state honors, finishing as runner-up in the 400-meter dash at the state championship and playing a crucial role in the Lambkins' Colorado record-breaking 4x200 state champion relay team.
Celebrating Excellence: Blue FCU Athlete of the Year
The Blue Federal Credit Union Athlete of the Year award serves as a prestigious recognition of the outstanding dedication and athletic achievements of high school students in the Fort Collins area. This initiative not only highlights individual accomplishments but also fosters a sense of community pride and engagement with local sports. The public's participation in the voting process further cements the award's significance, allowing fans to directly support and celebrate their favorite young athletes. The journey to the championship matchup has been filled with fierce competition, underscoring the high caliber of high school sports in the region.
This year's championship features two athletes whose resumes speak volumes about their commitment and talent. Cadel Ruthven's exceptional performance in endurance running events, marked by multiple state-level accolades and school records, showcases his relentless pursuit of excellence. Preston Mozer's dual-sport dominance in football and track demonstrates his versatility and ability to excel under pressure in different athletic environments. His contributions to both team successes are a testament to his athletic gifts. The eventual winner will join a distinguished list of past recipients, embodying the spirit of sportsmanship, dedication, and high achievement that the Blue Federal Credit Union Athlete of the Year award aims to celebrate.
