Congrats to Jaeden Stangle on winning our December 2025 UCHealth Player of the Month award!
Jaeden is a forward in our North Adaptive Program who brings heart, determination, and passion to everything he does. He’s a joy to have on the fields and an outstanding special needs student at Fireside Elementary, who was recently recognized as Student of the Month for his positive attitude and perseverance. He has achieved impressive milestones, including being named Rider of the Year at the Colorado Therapeutic Riding Center, earning two first-place ribbons at a recent horse show, and achieving a blue belt in Muay Thai. He also took to the skies through Challenge Air, flying a small airplane as part of the program’s mission to empower individuals with special needs. Jaeden is an active participant in Adam’s Camp, where he received the Heart of the Pack award for his positivity and teamwork. With his can-do attitude, favorite hat, and eagerness to try new things, Jaeden continues to inspire us!
This January, Jaeden will be presented with a plaque and a gift card to acknowledge his achievements. We met with Jaeden’s family to learn a bit more about him. Check out the full interview below!
What influence has soccer had in Jaeden’s life?
Soccer has taught Jaeden how, with hard work and showing up ready to play every time, he can learn a new sport and accomplish a lot of personal goals. It has been a way for him to support other teammates and to feel a sense of belonging to a team. He looks forward to practice and enjoys learning new skills step by step. Soccer gives him confidence and a place where he can feel included.
Why do you believe that Jaeden was nominated for this award?
Jaeden always shows up ready to play. He always tries his best and likes to complete and accomplish things. He has proven he can do anything he puts his mind to. Jaeden never wants to miss practice; it’s something he looks forward to. He takes pride in being a part of the team and puts a lot of effort into supporting his teammates.
What does Jaeden enjoy most about playing for Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club?
He really enjoys playing with his soccer buddy. That one-on-one time is special to him, and it allows him to learn more effectively. Jaeden loves to be active in the community when it comes to soccer etc… he is always willing to try new things as well as make new friends. He really likes the parachute at the end of practice. He enjoys learning new skills, working through challenges, and continues to participate, even when it’s difficult, which is a big accomplishment for him. He is proud to contribute to the team.
What soccer accomplishment is Jaeden most proud of?
Jaeden has completed every session the Adaptive program has offered. He likes running, dribbling the soccer ball, and scoring goals. He is proud of stepping up to the challenges he faces during practice and games. He has learned a lot and continues to learn every time he plays. He is proud that even though it’s hard, he doesn’t give up.
What academic achievement is Jaeden most proud of?
Jaeden won 2 first place ribbons at this year’s horse show. Jaeden is awesome at reading.
How do you think Jaeden’s teammates would describe you?
Jaeden is a team player and is always willing to get his teammates involved in the game. He loves clapping for his teammates when they do a good job. Jaeden likes to celebrate the wins with his teammates and encourages them when things are more difficult. He is very supportive of his teammates.
What is something that shows Jaeden’s exemplary character, commitment to sportsmanship, community involvement, etc..?
Jaeden is always willing to try new things and put his teammates first. At camp this summer, he was awarded the “Heart of the Pack” award, which truly speaks to his big heart and courage, which shines bright every day.
What’s Jaeden’s favorite soccer player and team?
THE COLORADO RAPIDS!
What does Jaeden hope to pursue in the near future?
Jaeden wants to keep learning and bettering his soccer skills while making new friends and bringing fun to the game.
Who inspires Jaeden and why? This can be someone famous or someone you know personally!
Jaeden is inspired by his mom, who pushes him to always do his best and encourages him to learn the skills needed for the future.
What else does Jaeden enjoy outside of playing for CRYSC?
Jaeden loves reading (especially Pete the Cat books), competing in all different sports, swimming, traveling, and playing games. He especially loves playing board and card games with his family and friends. He’s really great at Candyland and matching games.
Since 2018, CRYSC and UCHealth + CU Orthopedics and Sports Medicine have worked together in an effort to grow the safety and health resources that are available for Rapids Youth players and members.
As our partnership strengthens with UCHealth, we want to work together to highlight the amazing players within the Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club with a monthly ‘Player of the Month’. Check out the criteria and nominate any players that deserve to be highlighted by UCHealth and CRYSC on the UCHealth Player of the Month page.
