The Journey
My
Story
From cochlear implants at age 4 to chasing a national title to facing elite academies like Manchester United on the world stage — this is the story of Daylen Hammon.
"The cochlear implants didn't slow me down. They allowed me to rebound and fight for each achievement. It hasn't always been easy, but I'm proud of my progression and excited for the future!"
— Daylen Hammon
Forward #5 · ODP National Team
The Beginning
Hearing the World Differently
Daylen was diagnosed with bilateral sensorineural hearing loss early in life. At age 4, he received cochlear implants — a transformative surgery that opened up the world of sound and communication in ways his family had hoped for.
Rather than treating his hearing journey as a limitation, Daylen's family embraced it as part of who he is. The resilience required to navigate that experience — the surgeries, the therapy, the learning to hear — became the bedrock of his competitive character.
Today, Daylen competes at the highest levels of American youth soccer, was selected to the inaugural US Soccer National Deaf Soccer Camp, and carries his story as a source of strength — not a setback.
Age 4
Cochlear Implants
May 2026
US Deaf Soccer Camp
2011
Born
The Road Here
The Journey
2011
Born a Fighter
Daylen Hammon is born in Colorado. Within his first years of life, he is diagnosed with bilateral sensorineural hearing loss — a condition that would shape his character and fuel his drive.
2015
Cochlear Implants
At age 4, Daylen receives cochlear implants — a life-changing surgery that opens up the world of sound. Rather than letting his hearing journey define his limits, it becomes the foundation of his resilience.
2017
I9 Soccer — The Spark
Daylen begins playing I9 Soccer at age 6, immediately showing a natural gift for the game. His speed, instinct in front of goal, and love for competition are evident from day one.
2018
First Recreational Club
Daylen joins his first real recreational team, taking his game to the next level. The structured environment sharpens his technical skills and deepens his passion for soccer.
2019
Real Colorado National Team
Daylen earns a spot on the Real Colorado National Team — his first taste of elite club soccer. Competing at the national level at age 8, he quickly establishes himself as a standout forward.
2020
Real Colorado Academy
Daylen advances to Real Colorado Academy — one of the most prestigious youth academies in the country — competing in CSA, ECNL and MLS Next. His development accelerates rapidly under elite coaching.
2023
Breakout Year & ODP Regional
A landmark year — Daylen wins the Las Vegas Mayor's Cup in February and the USYS Farwest Regional Championship in June. He also earns his first ODP selection to the Colorado Regional Team, competing against the top players in the state.
2024
ODP National Team
Daylen is selected to the ODP West Regional Team and then the ODP National Team — one of just 18 players nationwide in the 2011 Boys age group. He contributes to the squad with multiple goals at the Easter Invitational Cup championship in Orlando, defeating Orlando City SC in the finals.
2024
ECNL National Finals
Real Colorado Academy advances to the ECNL National Finals in Virginia Beach, VA — one of the most competitive stages in American youth soccer. Daylen competes at the highest level against the best clubs in the country.
2026
The World Stage
Daylen competes at the Rotterdam Orange Veins Cup in Amsterdam in April — facing PSG, Manchester United, Newcastle United, West Ham United and 15+ elite international academies. In May, he earns a spot at the inaugural US Soccer National Deaf Soccer Camp in Fayetteville, GA.
The Full Picture
Beyond the Pitch
Handicap 6
Golf
Daylen carries a 6 golf handicap — a testament to the same focus and competitive drive he brings to soccer. He celebrated a hole-in-one at Kennedy Golf Course, proving elite athleticism transcends the pitch.
4.07 GPA
Academics
Maintaining a 4.07 GPA while competing on the national stage is no small feat. Daylen's academic discipline mirrors his athletic work ethic — committed, consistent, and always pushing for excellence.
Leader On & Off the Pitch
Character
Whether it's bowling with friends, go-karts with family, or leading his team on the field, Daylen brings the same energy and positivity everywhere he goes. His cochlear implant journey has made him a natural leader and inspiration.
Coach's Corner
Daylen is the definition of commitment and work ethic. His drive to improve every day and his pursuit of perfection make him truly deserving of this opportunity.
Coach Ri Armstrong
The Next Chapter
Daylen's story is still being written. College coaches and scouts — be part of what comes next.