The News Tribune has unveiled its esteemed list of candidates for the 2025-26 Boys Athlete of the Year, showcasing a remarkable collection of high school sports talent. These young men have distinguished themselves through exceptional performances, unwavering dedication, and significant contributions to their respective teams across multiple disciplines. The nominees represent a diverse array of sports, including wrestling, football, track and field, basketball, soccer, and baseball, each bringing a unique set of accomplishments and accolades to the forefront. Their achievements range from securing state championships and setting new records to earning top-tier collegiate commitments and leading their teams to unprecedented successes.
The selection process for this prestigious award acknowledges not only athletic prowess but also the profound impact these individuals have had on their school communities and teammates. Their stories are a testament to hard work, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence. From dominating on the wrestling mat to breaking speed records on the track, and from orchestrating game-winning plays on the football field to leading their basketball teams to state tournaments, these athletes embody the spirit of competitive sportsmanship. The public is invited to participate in the voting process, which remains open until noon on Monday, June 22, to help determine who will be crowned the ultimate male athlete of the year.
Celebrating Multi-Sport Excellence and Record-Breaking Achievements
This year's nominations for The News Tribune's 2025-26 Male Athlete of the Year spotlight an exceptional group of high school athletes, each leaving an indelible mark on their respective sports. These young men have not only demonstrated remarkable athletic skill but have also achieved significant milestones, contributing to their teams' successes and often setting new benchmarks. From securing state championships to breaking long-standing records, their dedication and hard work are evident in every accomplishment. The featured athletes span a wide range of sports, including wrestling, football, track and field, basketball, soccer, and baseball, showcasing the depth of talent within the region.
Among the standout nominees is Trevor Anderson from Orting, a junior who clinched his second state wrestling title, overcoming a three-time champion. Henry Blake from Gig Harbor excelled in both soccer and football, earning league MVP honors and a commitment to Oregon State for soccer. Eddie Bruner Jr. of Lincoln successfully defended two state titles in track and field, while Jaxon Budd from Tumwater set a new state record in the long jump and led his football team to a runner-up finish. Derek Colman-Brusa of Kennedy Catholic, a top football recruit, signed with the University of Washington after an impressive season with 50 tackles and eight sacks. Felix Diaz from Mount Tahoma shone as a two-way player in football, scoring 12 rushing touchdowns and grabbing three interceptions. Caden Durocher of Olympia set a new state record in the 800M Run, and Elijah Durr, also from Mount Tahoma, was recognized as the Gatorade state player of the year for his all-around football performance. Izear Ferguson of Sumner captured state titles in both the 100M and 200M Dashes and contributed significantly to his school's championship football team. Amin Fidaar of Rogers established a new state record in the 1600M Run, demonstrating his dominance in distance events. Shaun Griffith from Sumner was instrumental in his football team's repeat state title, earning co-Defensive Player of the Year honors. Dominique Harper of River Ridge led his basketball team to the state tournament with impressive scoring and rebounding. Shan Jones from Mount Tahoma anchored his football team's defense with 134 tackles and critical interceptions. Matthew Ledbetter of Kentlake delivered a state baseball title with an extra-inning hit, showcasing his skills as both a hitter and a pitcher. Lawson Looker of Puyallup excelled as a three-sport athlete in football, basketball, and golf, earning first-team honors in football. Owen Marshall of Tahoma secured his second state wrestling title, further solidifying his reputation. Michael Masini of Gig Harbor left the basketball program with 18 school records, including career points and rebounds. Lazarus McEwen of Capital claimed his second state wrestling title as a sophomore, highlighting his rising star status. Lance McGee of Sumner led his football team to back-to-back state titles, setting championship game records in rushing yards and touchdowns. Jamaize McGriff of Emerald Ridge powered his basketball team to its best postseason finish, earning defensive MVP honors. Christopher Moore of Kentlake, a UW commit, led his baseball team to a state title with outstanding pitching and hitting. Lucas Morgan of Sumner was named the All-Area Soccer Player of the Year, leading his team to the state championship game. Will Nasinec of Puyallup became the second all-time leading scorer in his school's basketball history. Wyatt Plyler of Sumner, the All-Area Baseball Player of the Year, led his team to their first state championship. Davion Shareef-Dulaney of Lincoln, the All-Area Boys Basketball Player of the Year, achieved over 1,000 career points as a sophomore and led his team to the state championship game. Jonah Smith of Yelm was a three-sport athlete excelling in football, wrestling, and baseball. Mana Voss of Central Kitsap claimed state titles in both the 800M and 1600M Runs. Finally, Jayden Walker of Decatur was a standout in wrestling and cross country, placing seventh at the state wrestling tournament. These athletes collectively represent the pinnacle of high school sports achievement, embodying skill, leadership, and commitment.
The News Tribune's Annual Recognition of Top High School Athletes
The News Tribune's annual selection of the Male Athlete of the Year nominees is a testament to the remarkable athletic talent present in local high schools. This year's roster for 2025-26 showcases individuals who have not only achieved impressive personal bests but have also been pivotal in their teams' successes. Each athlete's profile highlights their significant contributions, ranging from individual accolades to team triumphs, and underscores their journey of hard work and dedication. The public now has the opportunity to cast their votes, recognizing these inspiring young athletes for their exceptional performances and leadership both on and off the field.
The nominated athletes have demonstrated excellence across a spectrum of sports, including the grueling demands of wrestling, the strategic play of football, the speed and endurance of track and field, the precision of basketball, the teamwork of soccer, and the skill of baseball. Trevor Anderson, a wrestling sensation, secured his second state title, showcasing incredible resilience. Henry Blake's dual-sport success in soccer and football earned him top league honors and a collegiate scholarship. Eddie Bruner Jr. and Jaxon Budd dominated the track, with Budd setting a new state long jump record. Derek Colman-Brusa's defensive prowess on the football field led to a highly sought-after university commitment. Felix Diaz's versatility as a running back and defensive back played a crucial role in his team's state championship appearance. Caden Durocher and Amin Fidaar set new state records in middle-distance running, illustrating their superior conditioning and speed. Elijah Durr's all-around football performance earned him state-level recognition, while Izear Ferguson's sprint titles and football contributions underscored his dynamic athleticism. Shaun Griffith's relentless motor on the defensive line was key to his football team's consecutive state titles. Dominique Harper's leadership guided his basketball team to a state tournament berth. Shan Jones's exceptional tackling and interception skills were vital for his football team's championship run. Matthew Ledbetter's clutch performance secured a state baseball title for his team. Lawson Looker's multi-sport talent in football, basketball, and golf highlights his diverse athletic abilities. Owen Marshall continued his wrestling dominance with a second state title. Michael Masini left a lasting legacy in basketball, setting numerous school records. Lazarus McEwen, a sophomore, has already claimed two state wrestling titles, signaling a bright future. Lance McGee's record-breaking rushing performances led his football team to multiple state championships. Jamaize McGriff's defensive and offensive contributions powered his basketball team to their best-ever postseason finish. Christopher Moore's two-way excellence in baseball resulted in a state title. Lucas Morgan's defensive leadership was central to his soccer team's journey to the state championship game. Will Nasinec etched his name in his school's basketball record books as a prolific scorer and rebounder. Wyatt Plyler's all-around talent in baseball earned him the player of the year award and a state championship. Davion Shareef-Dulaney, a sophomore, quickly became a household name in basketball with his game-winning heroics and impressive scoring. Jonah Smith's three-sport versatility showcased his adaptability and strength. Mana Voss's double state titles in track and field demonstrated his middle-distance supremacy. Jayden Walker's success in wrestling and cross country rounds out this impressive group. These narratives collectively paint a picture of extraordinary achievement and promise in high school athletics, inspiring future generations of athlete
