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Kansas City Area Football Player of the Year Fan Poll
Northeast Area Football Player of the Year Fan Poll
Northwest Area Football Player of the Year Fan Poll
Southwest Area Football Player of the Year Fan Poll
Heath Hoekman (Abilene)
Heath Hoekman had an outstanding senior season, building on a four-year career as a starter on both sides of the ball. On defense, he recorded 69 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, three sacks, and one interception, bringing his career totals to over 260 tackles, 41 tackles for loss, and 11 sacks. As a strong-side defensive end, Heath was consistently difficult to block, and his leadership extended beyond the field into the weight room and classroom. Offensively, he excelled at tight end with 18 catches for 304 yards and three touchdowns, including several spectacular one-handed receptions. His peers recognized his impact by voting him Defensive MVP this season. Heath has also earned multiple honors, including NCKL 1st Team defensive lineman and KSHSAA Covered HM All-State defensive lineman.
Taygen Funston (Abilene)
Taygen Funston is one of the most talented athletes the Abilene program has seen in 26 years. A four-year, two-way starter, he totaled 41 tackles and three interceptions this season, guarding the opponent’s top player consistently. Taygen finished his career with 16 interceptions, often deterring teams from throwing his way. Offensively, he transitioned from an All-League wide receiver as a freshman and sophomore to quarterback as a junior and senior, passing for over 2,200 career yards with 18 touchdowns and rushing for 850 yards with 15 touchdowns. His leadership earned him the “Most Inspirational Senior” award from his teammates.
Max Bottorff (Atchison County)
Max Bottorff is the epitome of a team leader, a competitor, and a humble worker. Over the past two seasons, he led Atchison County in rushing and tackles, finishing this year with approximately 900 total yards, 13 touchdowns, and 120 total tackles, including 13 tackles for loss, two sacks, two interceptions, two forced fumbles, and one defensive touchdown. Opponents schemed to neutralize him, yet Max continued to excel, showing relentless effort and commitment both on the field and in the weight room.
Rance Vessar (Atchison County)
Rance Vessar’s versatility and selflessness defined Atchison County’s season. Playing all over the field, wide receiver, running back, quarterback, LB, DB, he finished with 50 tackles, six tackles for loss, two sacks, one interception, one forced fumble, and one touchdown on defense, while totaling 330 yards and five touchdowns on offense. Rance also punted 19 times for 655 yards, including eight inside the 20 and three inside the 10. His dedication, humility, and ability to do whatever the team needed made him an invaluable player.
Carson Dixon (Basehor-Linwood)
Carson Dixon, the quarterback and team captain, is the driving force behind Basehor-Linwood’s undefeated season. He has passed for over 1,600 yards with 19 touchdowns and four interceptions, and rushed for 570 yards with seven touchdowns. Recognized as 1st Team UKC quarterback and Conference Offensive Player of the Year, Carson’s decision-making, leadership, and unselfish approach have been instrumental in the team’s 10-0 record.
Joel Rexroat (Beloit)
Joel Rexroat is a career standout at running back, amassing 3,400 rushing yards and 51 touchdowns. Tough and dependable, Joel’s work ethic and consistency make him one of the best backs his coaches have ever seen.
Kross Kemmerer (Beloit)
Sophomore Kross Kemmerer emerged as a vocal leader, dominating the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball. His impact helped Beloit rebound after a slow start due to injuries, and he is poised to become a household name in the years to come.
Daniel Neenan (Bishop Miege)
Senior Daniel Neenan, a team captain, earned 1st Team All-EKL honors with 55 tackles (45 solo), 16 tackles for loss, three sacks, two pass breakups, and one forced fumble. His leadership and defensive dominance have been a cornerstone of Bishop Miege’s program.
Devyn Davis (Bishop Miege)
Devyn Davis, a four-year starter and team captain, has been a consistent difference-maker for Bishop Miege. His experience, leadership, and play on both sides of the ball have made him an essential contributor to the team’s success.
James Jarvis (Clifton-Clyde)
James Jarvis is one of the toughest players in Clifton-Clyde history, excelling as an offensive center and nose guard despite being undersized. Known for his quick first step and ability to beat larger opponents, James thrives on competition and has earned respect for his tenacity and leadership.
Reid Buttrey (Council Grove)
Junior Reid Buttrey was Council Grove’s most versatile and valuable player in 2025. Offensively, he totaled 984 yards across passing, rushing, and receiving, accounting for 15 touchdowns. Defensively, he recorded 56 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, five quarterback hurries, five pass breakups, one interception, one forced fumble, one sack, and a blocked punt. He also averaged 33.4 yards on 28 punts. Buttrey’s leadership and adaptability helped lead the Braves to a 7-3 season and a Sweet Sixteen finish.
Tyler Hutchinson (Council Grove)
Senior Tyler Hutchinson, a two-way lineman, rarely left the field and consistently set the tone with his toughness. Offensively, he recorded 16 pancake blocks, while defensively, he posted 42 tackles and 11 tackles for loss at nose guard. Tyler’s consistency and leadership defined the identity of Council Grove’s 2025 team.
Stephen Kerschen (Cunningham)
Junior Stephen Kerschen contributed in every phase as part of a dynamic running back duo. His work ethic, athleticism, and involvement in school activities make him a model student-athlete.
Dylan Halderson (Cunningham)
Dylan Halderson is a traditional, hard-nosed football player. Playing end on offense and middefensive linemane linebacker on defense, Dylan leads by example, consistently motivates teammates, and earns respect from opponents for his toughness.
Colten Musil (Deerfield)
Colten Musil was a versatile force for Deerfield, contributing at every position on the field. His athleticism and determination allowed him to carry the team when needed.
Cristian Botello (Deerfield)
Cristian Botello made plays all over the field as a wide receiver, finishing with the most receiving yards on the team and serving as a key offensive difference-maker.
Trace Tudor (Ellinwood)
Trace Tudor leads Ellinwood’s offense with calm confidence and earned respect through his work ethic, football IQ, and leadership. Both on and off the field, Trace sets the standard for teammates and serves as an exemplary role model for younger players.
Cage Crabill (Eudora)
Three-year starter Cage Crabill anchored Eudora’s offensive line and earned unanimous 1st Team All-League honors. He blocked for over 10,000 career rushing yards and 36 touchdowns, exemplifying leadership and consistency.
Leland Bradshaw (Eudora)
Leland Bradshaw, a three-year starter at DT and two-year starter at LG, was a dominant presence on both sides of the line. He earned All-League honors and contributed to over 6,000 career rushing yards, 36 touchdowns, and career defensive totals of 144 tackles, 10 sacks, and 18 tackles for loss.
Wes Anderson (Frankfort)
Wes Anderson, a three-time captain and starting quarterback since his freshman year, has amassed over 8,000 career passing yards with 117 touchdowns and only 15 interceptions. This season, he recorded 2,556 all-purpose yards and 43 total touchdowns while leading the team in tackles. Wes maintains a 4.0 GPA, serves as senior class president, and embodies excellence both on and off the field.
Jhett Price (Garden City)
Jhett Price, a transfer from Plainview, Oklahoma, made an immediate impact for Garden City. A three-year standout at long and short snapper, linebacker, and fullback/TE, Jhett led the WAC in tackles and finished just one tackle shy of breaking the school single-game record against Liberal. With 30 tackles in two games versus Manhattan, Jhett’s consistency and versatility were unmatched. Academically, he excels with a 4.0 GPA, 26 ACT, and membership in NHS and FCA. A natural leader, Jhett motivates teammates and embodies dedication and excellence both on and off the field.
Zac Kitch (Garden City)
Zac Kitch anchored Garden City’s offensive line as center and contributed on the defensive line. Known for his leadership, Zac communicated effectively with younger players, rallied his unit, and led by example. His presence on the field elevated the team’s performance, making him one of the most respected leaders in the program.
Syre Padilla (Gardner Edgerton)
Syre Padilla had a record-breaking season, rushing for 2,374 yards on 215 carries with 36 touchdowns through ten games, surpassing the previous school record. Beyond his athletic achievements, Syre’s character shines; he treats everyone with respect and demonstrates leadership, humility, and integrity off the field.
Cooper Cranston (Holcomb)
Sophomore Cooper Cranston is a rare, multi-talented athlete. Standing 6’0” and 195 pounds, Cooper excelled at quarterback, safety, punter, punt returner, and kick returner. He rushed for 1,208 yards, passed for 808 yards with 12 touchdowns, and added 58 tackles, three tackles for loss, and eight interceptions on defense. A first-team GWAC All-League quarterback and defensive back, Cooper combines elite athleticism with exceptional character.
Korbin Johnson (Holcomb)
Korbin Johnson, a four-year defensive starter and three-year offensive contributor, finished his career with 303 tackles, including 138 solo and 20 tackles for loss, alongside 1,451 rushing yards, 1,325 receiving yards, and 31 total touchdowns. Battling health challenges this season, Korbin remained a leader, demonstrating resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to Holcomb’s success.
Conner Bush (Kaw Valley)
Conner Bush, a three-year starter on both sides of the ball, led Kaw Valley with 656 rushing yards at 10.8 yards per carry and over 100 tackles on defense. His consistent production and leadership make him a cornerstone of the team and a top safety in the league.
Canann Mitchell (Kaw Valley)
First-year starter Canann Mitchell excelled as Kaw Valley’s quarterback, passing for over 1,300 yards with 16 touchdowns at a 68% completion rate. As a dual-threat, he also rushed for 821 yards with 15 touchdowns. Canann’s ability to distribute the ball effectively helped Kaw Valley average 46 points per game while establishing him as a team leader.
Jaxon Pollard (Lansing)
Jaxon Pollard, a returning All-State player, contributed over 1,000 rushing yards in both his sophomore and junior seasons. He played every defensive snap, returned punts and kicks, and served as Lansing’s varsity long snapper all three years. Jaxon’s versatility, consistency, and leadership make him a critical contributor.
J.J. Dunnigan (Manhattan High School)
J.J. Dunnigan is a key athlete for Manhattan High School, making significant contributions to the team’s success with his skill, effort, and leadership on the field.
Garrison Vikander (Manhattan)
Garrison Vikander is a two-year, two-way starter, playing left tackle on offense and defensive end on defense. His dominance at both positions has made him a difference-maker and a respected leader for Manhattan.
Ashton Harjo (Meade)
Ashton Harjo, a 5’10”, 170 lb linebacker/running back, finished the season with 111 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, four sacks, two forced fumbles, four interceptions, 626 rushing yards, and 14 touchdowns, along with 62 receiving yards and a touchdown. Beyond football, Ashton leads as president of STUCO and 4-H, serving as a role model for younger players.
Jeremaine Conley (Meade)
Sophomore Jeremaine Conley ranked in the top 10 in the state for receiving yards in 8-man football. At 6’1” and 165 pounds, he totaled 727 yards on 35 receptions with 13 touchdowns, excelling in route running, hands, and blocking. Jeremaine’s work ethic and leadership on and off the field make him a rising star.
Bryce Bunger (Mission Valley)
Bryce Bunger contributed in multiple ways for Mission Valley, totaling 522 all-purpose yards, seven receiving touchdowns, and a kickoff return for a touchdown. Defensively, he added 17 tackles, an interception, and a tackle for loss. Bryce’s versatility and impact make him an indispensable team member.
Ian Deters (Mission Valley)
Ian Deters made a significant impact through consistency and toughness, playing multiple positions despite injuries. He recorded 46 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, an interception, and a fumble recovery while rushing for 421 yards and scoring three total touchdowns. Ian’s commitment and versatility made him invaluable to Mission Valley.
Benji Burton (Olathe East)
Benji Burton, a three-sport varsity athlete, led Olathe East with 48 tackles, 10 receptions for 272 yards, and four carries for 132 yards. A football squad leader and captain, Benji exemplifies integrity, responsibility, and leadership, uplifting teammates and maintaining high standards on and off the field.
Pete Izzo (Olathe East)
Two-year captain Pete Izzo anchored Olathe East’s offensive line and earned respect for his dedication, leadership, and ability to motivate teammates. Known for his integrity and humility, Pete sets a tone of excellence both on and off the field, embodying the ideals of a student-athlete.
Gage Lee (Olathe South)
Junior Gage Lee, a 6’2”, 180-pound quarterback, was the heartbeat of Olathe South, throwing for 1,300 yards with 10 touchdowns and rushing for 1,327 yards with 20 scores. Beyond his athletic excellence, Gage volunteered with youth football programs and supported his peers, exemplifying leadership, accountability, and community engagement.
Dax Grissom (Olathe South)
Dax Grissom is a true difference-maker whose leadership transformed Olathe South’s season. Known for “Southside Grit,” Dax brings energy, sets standards, and elevates everyone around him. Whether in practice, the weight room, or under Friday night lights, his commitment, toughness, and relentless effort are unmatched. Beyond his on-field contributions, Dax leads by example in the classroom, locker room, and community, embodying pride, accountability, and selflessness. He is the kind of player every coach dreams of building a program around.
Ben Fields (Osawatomie)
Ben Fields, a 6’2”, 215-pound ILB/RB/KR, is a team captain whose dedication and versatility anchor Osawatomie’s success. With 72 total tackles (41 solo) and 6.5 tackles for loss, Ben consistently makes plays on defense. He is extremely coachable, academically strong with a 3.5+ GPA, and active in choir, theater, and varsity track. His work ethic and commitment to doing whatever it takes for the team set the standard for his peers.
Blaine Flanagan (Osawatomie)
Blaine Flanagan, 6’5”, 230 pounds, serves as a team captain and reliable playmaker. He contributed as a DE/TE/OLB, finishing with 24 receptions for 264 yards offensively and 46 tackles (21 solo) defensively, ranking among the Pioneer League leaders. Blaine’s adaptability, dedication, and willingness to play multiple positions make him an invaluable team leader.
Sasha Pichnenko (Paola)
Sasha Pichnenko is a dynamic two-way player who also excelled in kick returns. He recorded 37 receptions for 730 yards and six touchdowns, ran three times for 80 yards and one touchdown, and added 180 return yards, totaling over 1,000 yards of offense. Sasha’s consistent commitment to summer football, weightlifting, and camps exemplifies his dedication and leadership, earning him 1st Team All-Conference honors at wide receiver.
Roman Byers Jr. (Piper)
Roman Byers Jr. had a standout season at Piper, rushing for 1,263 yards at 7.89 yards per carry with 23 rushing touchdowns. He added 17 receptions for 234 yards and two receiving touchdowns, completed a passing attempt for 71 yards and a touchdown, and tallied 50 tackles with two tackles for loss and one interception on defense. Roman is a team captain and leader whose impact spans every phase of the game.
Roch Emanuel (Piper)
Roch Emanuel, a team captain, led Piper with 64 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, six sacks, and forced and recovered multiple fumbles. His leadership and performance on defense were critical to the team’s success.
Ryddik Bethel (Plainville)
Ryddik Bethel has anchored Plainville’s offensive and defensive lines for three seasons, earning recognition as the team’s most consistent and dominant player. In 2025, he was a unanimous 1st Team MCL Defensive Lineman and 1st Team MCL Offensive Lineman. His accolades also include SIK 1st Team All-State OL and Wichita Eagle 1st Team All-State OL.
Rylan Hamel (Plainville)
Rylan Hamel, a sophomore, demonstrated unselfish leadership by transitioning from fullback and OLB to left tackle, later moving to MLB. He led the team in tackles, earning 1st Team MCL Linebacker and 2nd Team MCL Offensive Line honors. His willingness to embrace new roles for the team highlights his maturity and skill.
Kamden Staton (Pleasanton)
Kamden Staton is a four-year starting quarterback who has thrown for over 1,000 yards in each season, totaling more than 5,000 career passing yards. His experience and consistency provide leadership and stability to the Pleasanton offense.
Connor Martin (Republic County)
Connor Martin, the heart and soul of Republic County’s defense, led the team with 110 total tackles (43 solo), 12 tackles for loss, one sack, five interceptions (2 for touchdowns), two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery. At 6’2”, 180 pounds, Connor’s dominance at OLB set the tone for his team all season.
Kash Henke (Republic County)
Kash Henke’s athleticism and playmaking ability changed games in critical moments. He rushed for 684 yards, passed for 709 yards with 11 total touchdowns, and returned an interception for a touchdown. Kash’s ability to create big plays when needed makes him a decisive factor for Republic County.
Griffin Cumpton (Royal Valley)
Griffin Cumpton, a three-year team captain and 2025 Shrine Bowl nominee, transitioned to running back midseason and finished with 1,038 rushing yards, 15 rushing touchdowns, and 7.48 yards per carry, plus 160 receiving yards and a touchdown. On defense at safety, he totaled 61 tackles, four interceptions, and 10 pass breakups. Griffin’s versatility and leadership are invaluable to Royal Valley.
Paxton Henery (Royal Valley)
Paxton Henery, an edge defender and versatile athlete, set school records as a junior with six sacks. This season, he recorded 61 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, and one interception. Paxton also contributed at TE, scoring a touchdown. His consistency and impact on both sides of the ball exemplify his value.
Dominic Matteucci (Sacred Heart)
Dominic Matteucci, a junior, played a pivotal role in turning Sacred Heart’s season around. In seven games, he amassed 741 yards and eight touchdowns while contributing 81 tackles, two interceptions, four tackles for loss, two forced fumbles, and a blocked punt on defense. Dom’s versatility and leadership make him a game-changing player.
Aiden Scott (Shawnee Heights)
Aiden Scott led Kansas in passing yards, completing 197 of 319 passes for 2,991 yards and 26 touchdowns in nine games. His remarkable production and leadership define his senior season.
Jack Reeves (Shawnee Mission East)
Jack Reeves, a three-year starter and two-year captain, set the standard for leadership and toughness. Before an injury cut his senior season short, he rushed for 1,276 yards with 19 touchdowns and threw for 439 yards with four touchdowns. Over his career, Jack totaled 2,868 rushing yards, 1,129 passing yards, and 48 touchdowns, leaving a lasting legacy.
Davis Eakes (Shawnee Mission East)
Davis Eakes, a two-year starter and two-time captain, excelled at linebacker and fullback. He rushed for 320 yards (7.1 YPC) and recorded 47 tackles, two tackles for loss, and one interception in his senior season. Over his career, Davis totaled 113 tackles, four tackles for loss, and three interceptions, exemplifying toughness, effort, and leadership.
Dayne Johnson (Silver Lake)
Dayne Johnson, the most competitive player Silver Lake has seen, caught 75 passes for 1,053 yards and eight touchdowns while recording 52 tackles and two interceptions as a defensive leader. His influence was crucial in maintaining one of the top defenses in 2A.
Carter Johnson (Sylvan Lucas Unified)
Carter Johnson served as quarterback and safety, consistently making smart decisions and keeping the team organized. His intelligence, leadership, and calm presence on the field set a standard for his teammates.
Zayne Maupin (Sylvan Lucas Unified)
Zayne Maupin is a standout running back and starting linebacker who has had an incredible season, rushing for nearly 1,700 yards while leading his team in tackles. His work ethic, coachability, and consistent effort make him a true leader on and off the field.
Ashton Wynn (Trego-WaKeeney)
Ashton Wynn is a four-year starter who had a remarkable senior season, earning 1st Team honors on offense, defense, and as a kicker in the MCL. At quarterback, he threw for 1,107 yards (59% completion) and 17 passing touchdowns while rushing for 705 yards and 17 rushing touchdowns. On defense at safety, he recorded 140 tackles, three interceptions (1 for a touchdown), seven forced fumbles, four fumble recoveries, and five pass breakups. Ashton also led the state with 41 touchbacks on kickoffs and returned punts for a touchdown. Beyond stats, Ashton exemplifies dedication, having trained in the weight room consistently since fourth grade. His humility, faith, and leadership make him a role model for his teammates and school.
Darris Brown (Trego-WaKeeney)
Darris Brown, a two-way starter, earned a team captain role thanks to his positive attitude, relentless work ethic, and leadership. While his stats may not fully capture his impact, Darris consistently performs the tasks that lead to team success, setting an example of commitment and grit for his teammates.
Chevy Mendoza (Turner)
Chevy Mendoza had one of the most impactful seasons in recent Turner history. As a senior captain, he played right tackle, defensive end, and inside linebacker, providing leadership and physicality on every play. Chevy led an offensive line that helped multiple players surpass 100-yard rushing games, breaking Turner’s 47-game losing streak with his dominant play at the point of attack. His leadership, toughness, and consistency earned recognition from UKC coaches and helped elevate the program’s overall competitiveness.
Preston Hittle (Ulysses)
Preston Hittle, a four-year player for Ulysses, is the “glue” of the team, holding the squad together both on and off the field. Despite overcoming multiple injuries, Preston’s commitment to the weight room and preparation earned him a team captain role and 1st Team All-GWAC honors at wide receiver, along with 2nd Team All-GWAC at defensive back. His resilience and leadership set the standard for his teammates.
Julian Meraz (Ulysses)
Julian Meraz is a four-year player with exceptional football IQ and leadership. Voted team captain by his peers, Julian serves as a role model for younger players and a standard for his older teammates. Known for making critical, game-changing plays, he consistently steps up when his team needs a big moment, showcasing both skill and poise under pressure.
