Softball standout Cheyenne Cordes of Rodriguez high school in Fairfield was honored with the nomination. The CAL bound senior plays shortstop and has competed internationally on the USA Jr national team. A long time GS athlete since the age of twelve she is very deserving of the honor and I wish her the best.
Robert Stephenson, the much heralded pitcher from Alhambra High is one of the nations top prospects. With a fastball that has hit 97mph he is on every major league teams watch list. Over the past two years I’ve dubbed him “Mr Perfect Attendance” for his dedication and rarely ever missing a workout. Robert is in the mold of a former Gamespeed athlete and Gatorade Player of the year back in 2002, Chris Gruler of Liberty High (Brentwood) who was a 2nd overall pick in that years draft.
The Gatorade State Player of the Year award winners are evaluated and selected on the basis of three criteria:
Athletic Achievement — success made at the club, national or international levels of competition, and standout performances in their respective sport. Includes statistical production, honors, skill-set evaluation, leadership ability, overall impact on team success and historical context of accomplishments.
Academic Excellence — review of GPA and class rank, as well as SAT and ACT scores, academic honors and distinctions.
Exemplary Character — overall sportsmanship, but also membership and participation in positive activities that demonstrate commitment to character and community.
Both these athletes exemplify the excellence in sports and as individuals that make them deserving of this award.
