Sophee Peterson, a junior volleyball player at Byron Nelson High School in Texas, has been named the 2025-2026 Gatorade National Girls Volleyball Player of the Year. The announcement came as a surprise during a ceremony held on her home court, where she was greeted by a crowd that included three-time Olympic medalist April Ross. This prestigious award follows her recent accolade as the Texas Gatorade Volleyball Player of the Year.
A Stellar Season of Achievement
Peterson’s recognition is a testament to her outstanding performance during the season, which saw her lead the Byron Nelson Bobcats to consecutive UIL Class 6A Division I state championships. The team finished with a perfect record of 42-0 in the 2025 season, securing the top spot in the nation according to Sports Illustrated’s final national rankings. Throughout the season, Peterson accumulated impressive statistics, including 1,459 assists, 274 digs, 161 kills, and 70 blocks, averaging 13.9 assists per set.
Her win places her among an elite group of athletes as only the 50th non-senior to receive the Gatorade National Player of the Year award in the program’s 41-year history. She is also the second volleyball player to earn this honor before her senior year.
Joining the Ranks of Legends
In congratulating Peterson, Jennifer Schmit, senior director for Gatorade brand marketing, expressed her excitement: “Joining the elite group of Gatorade Player of the Year alumni means being part of a community of athletes who have gone on to define their sports. Sophee has proven that she belongs in this group of greats, and we can’t wait to watch her continue on to greatness in the years to come.”
Past recipients of this honor include sports icons such as Peyton Manning, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Alex Rodriguez, and Clayton Kershaw. Collectively, these athletes have garnered 91 Olympic gold medals and 13 national championships.
Peterson also achieved recognition as an American Volleyball Coaches Association First Team All-American and is currently ranked as the nation’s No. 1 player in her class by PrepVolleyball.com. Her contributions have been pivotal in leading her high school team to a remarkable 78 consecutive matches won, making them the first team to secure back-to-back 6A titles in Texas.
Excellence Beyond Volleyball
Beyond her athletic prowess, Peterson excels academically, holding a 4.64 weighted GPA. She is a member of the Byron Nelson BioMedical Academy and earned her “white coat” distinction this year. In addition to her academic achievements, she has invested significant time in the community, serving as a program leader at the Byron Nelson Youth Volleyball Camp.
The Gatorade Player of the Year program annually honors one winner from each of the 50 states and Washington, D.C., across 12 sports. From these state winners, one national player of the year is selected for each sport, underscoring the competitive nature of this prestigious award.
