Chandler, Arizona, January 9, 2026
Roye Oliver III, a standout wide receiver from Hamilton High School in Chandler, Arizona, has been awarded the MaxPreps National Sophomore Player of the Year. This historic achievement showcases his exceptional talent, with remarkable statistics including 92 receptions for 1,839 yards and 29 receiving touchdowns. His accomplishments not only elevate his profile but also highlight the growing prominence of Arizona high school football on the national stage. Oliver’s recognition serves as an inspiration for young athletes within the community, emphasizing the value of hard work, discipline, and perseverance in sports.
Phoenix
Arizona Talent Shines Bright: Roye Oliver III Named National Sophomore Player of the Year
The future of high school football Nationwide is undeniably bright, and right here in the greater Phoenix area, we have a national leader. Hamilton High School’s dynamic wide receiver, Roye Oliver III, has been named the 2025 MaxPreps National Sophomore Player of the Year, a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering dedication on the gridiron. This remarkable achievement not only celebrates Oliver’s personal triumph but also elevates the prominence of Phoenix AZ high school football on the national stage.
High school sports are a cornerstone of our community, fostering invaluable life lessons in teamwork, discipline, and personal responsibility. Oliver’s journey embodies these principles, showcasing how hard work and commitment can lead to extraordinary opportunities. His recognition inspires countless young athletes across the state, reminding them that with persistent effort, leadership, and character, the sky’s the limit.
A National Honor for an Arizona Star
Roye Oliver III of Hamilton (Chandler, Arizona) has earned the prestigious title of the 2025 MaxPreps National Sophomore Player of the Year, marking a historic moment as the first player from Arizona to claim this Nationwide honor. This recognition places Oliver among an elite group of past winners, showcasing his impact on the sport at such a young age. Oliver also earned a first-team selection on the 2025 MaxPreps Sophomore All-America Team.
Oliver’s sophomore campaign was nothing short of spectacular. He recorded 92 receptions for an impressive 1,839 yards and tied a State-level record with 29 receiving touchdowns. Furthermore, he demonstrated his versatility by returning two punts for scores and broke eight school records. His outstanding performance played a crucial role in leading Hamilton to an 11-1 record and an appearance in the Open Division semifinal. Oliver’s talent was also recognized within Arizona, as he was named the 2025 Ed Doherty Award recipient as the State’s top prep football player.
Elite Company on the MaxPreps Sophomore All-America Team
The 2025 MaxPreps Sophomore All-America Team acknowledges 60 outstanding players from across the country who demonstrated exceptional skill and impact during their sophomore seasons. Alongside Oliver, other notable selections include quarterback Trey Wright of Lone Star (Frisco, Texas) and Casey Barner of McEachern (Powder Springs, Georgia).
Trey Wright distinguished himself by leading the nation in total offense, accumulating 5,860 yards. His impressive statistics included throwing for 4,062 yards and 43 touchdowns, complemented by 1,798 rushing yards and 16 additional scores. Another standout, Xander Edwards of Bolles (Jacksonville, Florida), demonstrated his powerful running ability by rushing for 2,629 yards and 44 touchdowns. These athletes exemplify the peak of high school football talent Nationwide, showcasing the rewards of dedication and focused effort.
A Legacy of Excellence and Inspiration
Since its inception in 2006, the MaxPreps Sophomore All-America Team has served as an important platform for identifying and celebrating the most promising young high school football players Nationwide. This prestigious list has historically featured future collegiate and professional stars such as Trevor Lawrence, Caleb Williams, and Bryce Young, highlighting the team’s ability to spot burgeoning talent early in their careers.
The inclusion of these young athletes on a Nationwide All-America team underscores the importance of competitive athletics in shaping character. These players exhibit not only remarkable physical abilities but also the mental fortitude, discipline, and commitment required to excel. Their achievements serve as powerful motivators for younger athletes, illustrating that relentless pursuit of personal bests can lead to significant accomplishments and open doors to future opportunities.
Arizona’s Growing Influence in Prep Football
The success of Roye Oliver III and the multiple selections from Hamilton High School reflect the increasing strength of Arizona prep football. Having three players from one school on a Nationwide All-America team, a feat shared only with IMG Academy, speaks volumes about the quality of coaching, player development, and the competitive environment fostered within our local programs.
This surge in recognized talent brings significant pride to the Phoenix metropolitan area and the entire state. It attracts attention from college scouts, potentially leading to more scholarships for local athletes, and boosts local sponsorships that strengthen school athletic programs. Such accomplishments reinforce community identity and fan engagement, as residents rally behind their rising stars and successful teams.
The Road Ahead: Building Future Leaders
The journey for these sophomore standouts is far from over. Their selection to the MaxPreps Sophomore All-America Team is a significant milestone, but it also marks the beginning of intensified scrutiny and higher expectations. It demands continued discipline, an unwavering commitment to improvement, and the personal responsibility to maintain excellence both on and off the field.
High school football is more than just a game; it is a crucible where character is forged, leadership skills are honed, and lifelong lessons are learned. These young athletes, especially those recognized Nationwide, are not just football players—they are role models for their peers and emerging leaders within their communities. Their dedication to their sport, their academic pursuits, and their personal growth sets a powerful example for what can be achieved through disciplined effort.
Support Your Local Gridiron Heroes!
The recognition of athletes like Roye Oliver III on the 2025 MaxPreps Sophomore All-America Team is a moment of immense pride for Phoenix and all of Arizona. It highlights the incredible talent, hard work, and character that flourish in our local high school athletic programs.
We encourage all residents to attend local high school football games, cheer on these dedicated young athletes, and support our valuable athletic programs. Your presence and enthusiasm strengthen our community bonds and provide vital encouragement to our rising stars. For more updates on Phoenix AZ high school football, Arizona prep sports, and inspiring stories of local athletes, keep following HEREPhoenix.com!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who was named the 2025 MaxPreps National Sophomore Player of the Year?
A: Roye Oliver III of Hamilton (Chandler, Arizona) was named the 2025 MaxPreps National Sophomore Player of the Year.
Q: Is Roye Oliver III the first player from Arizona to receive this national honor?
A: Yes, Roye Oliver III is the first player from Arizona to claim the MaxPreps National Sophomore Player of the Year award.
Q: What were some of Roye Oliver III’s key statistics during his sophomore season?
A: Roye Oliver III had 92 receptions for 1,839 yards and tied a State-level record with 29 receiving touchdowns. He also had two punt return scores.
Q: How many players were selected for the 2025 MaxPreps Sophomore All-America Team?
A: The 2025 MaxPreps Sophomore All-America Team includes 60 players Nationwide.
Q: Since when has the MaxPreps Sophomore All-America Team recognized top high school football players Nationwide?
A: The MaxPreps Sophomore All-America Team has been recognizing top high school football players Nationwide since 2006.
Q: Which high school in Arizona had multiple players selected to the 2025 MaxPreps Sophomore All-America Team?
A: Hamilton High School (Chandler, Arizona) had three players selected to the 2025 MaxPreps Sophomore All-America Team.
Key Features of the 2025 MaxPreps Sophomore All-America Team
| Feature | Description | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| National Sophomore Player of the Year | Roye Oliver III from Hamilton (Chandler, Arizona) | Nationwide |
| Number of Players Selected | 60 players | Nationwide |
| Inception of the Team | Since 2006 | Nationwide |
| Oliver’s Receiving Yards | 1,839 yards | State-level |
| Oliver’s Receiving Touchdowns | 29 (tied State-level record) | State-level |
| Trey Wright’s Total Offense | 5,860 yards (led the nation) | Nationwide |
| Xander Edwards’ Rushing Yards | 2,629 yards | Nationwide |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Arizona High School Football Season Highlights Talent and Teamwork
Hamilton High School’s Oliver III Wins Player of the Year
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
