Division I Player of the Year

In 1985, The Gatorade Company established an award honoring America's elite high school student-athletes. Now in its third decade, the Gatorade Player of the Year award has become one of the most prestigious accolades in high school sports. The Gatorade Player of the Year program annually recognizes one award winner in the District of Columbia and each of the 50 states that sanction high school boys football, girls volleyball, boys and girls cross country, boys and girls soccer, boys and girls basketball, boys baseball, girls softball, and boys and girls track & field. ESPN RISE, the multimedia high school division of ESPN, in partnership with The Gatorade Company, administers the selection process for Gatorade State and National Player of the Year awards. All final selection decisions are the result of a collaborative effort between ESPN RISE and The Gatorade Company.

Among Gatorade Player of the Year award alumni, fans will discover names like Peyton Manning, Candace Parker, Alonzo Mourning and Lisa Leslie. These champions represent only a handful of exceptionally talents who were first recognized by the Gatorade Player of the Year program before shining at the highest levels of competition. For over 25 years, state and national Players of the Year have been honored for their athletic achievements, academic excellence and exemplary character.

The Gatorade Company is proud to recognize, celebrate and support the nation's most outstanding high school talents throughout their journey to greatness both on and off the field.

The Gatorade State Player of the Year award winners are evaluated and selected on the basis of three criteria: Athletic Achievement — success made at the club, national or international levels of competition, and standout performances in their respective sport. Includes statistical production, honors, skill-set evaluation, leadership ability, overall impact on team success and historical context of accomplishments. Academic Excellence — review of GPA and class rank, as well as SAT and ACT scores, academic honors and distinctions. Exemplary Character — overall sportsmanship, but also membership and participation in positive activities that demonstrate commitment to character and community.

State Player of the Year award winners are eligible for the Gatorade National Player of the Year award in their respective sports.