No Fear Press

Hamilton High School sophomore wide receiver Roye Oliver III has been named the 2025–26 Gatorade Arizona Football Player of the Year, earning the state’s top individual honor in high school athletics. The announcement, made Thursday (December 4) by Gatorade, recognizes Oliver as the premier football player in Arizona—highlighting his on-field dominance, academic effort, and community impact. 

The award places Oliver among an elite lineage of past recipients who went on to become NFL stars, college standouts, top-tier coaches, and industry leaders. Now in its 41st year, the Gatorade Player of the Year program celebrates athletes who excel not only on the field but also in the classroom and their communities.

A Record-Breaking Sophomore Season

Standing 5-foot-11 and 165 pounds, Oliver delivered one of the most explosive seasons in Arizona history. He caught 92 passes for 1,843 yards and 29 touchdowns, powering the Huskies to a 12–1 record and an Open Division semifinal appearance. His 29 receiving touchdowns tied the state single-season record, and he already owns the 6A all-time career touchdown receptions mark with 40. Oliver also returned two punts for scores, showcasing his versatility and game-changing speed. 

Opposing coaches took notice. Basha head coach Chris McDonald praised Oliver’s playmaking ability, saying,

“Roye is very instinctive, explosive and has great body control. He makes tough catches and plays look easy.” 

Leadership Beyond the Field

Oliver’s impact extends into the community. He has volunteered as a flag football referee and participates in multiple service initiatives through his church. In the classroom, he maintains a 3.31 GPA and is set to begin his junior year next fall. 

About the Award

Each year, Gatorade selects one Player of the Year from each state in 12 sports, honoring 610 athletes nationwide. From that group, one national winner is chosen per sport by an expert selection committee composed of coaches, scouts, and media members. The program also awards grants to winners to support social-impact organizations—totaling more than $6.4 million donated to date.