Denton Ryan quarterback Spencer Sanders, a four-year starter with more than 10,000 career yards passing, has been named the Texas Associated Press Sports Editors high school player of the year.
Sanders was named Friday in voting by a panel of eight sports writers and editors who cover Texas high school football. He is the ninth quarterback in the award's 11-yea history and second from his school. Ryan's Scotty Young was the 2009 winner.
Sanders threw for 10,329 yards and had a 46-6 record. He overcame torn ligaments in each of his knees, the first as a freshman and the second in the playoffs last year.
Ryan reached the Class 5A semifinals the past two years, losing to Dallas Highland Park both times. Sanders' second knee injury was against Highland Park a year ago.
The player of the year ballot includes the 10 offensive and defensive players of the year from all five classifications of the AP's five all-state teams.
Previous Winners
- 2017: Spencer Sanders, QB, Denton Ryan
- 2016: Charlie Brewer, QB, Lake Travis
- 2015: Sam Ehlinger, QB, Austin Westlake
- 2014: Kyler Murray, QB, Allen
- 2013: Patrick Mahomes, QB, Whitehouse
- 2012: Kenny Hill, QB, Southlake Carroll
- 2011: Johnathan Gray, RB, Aledo
- 2010: Johnny Manziel, QB, Kerrville Tivy
- 2009: Scotty Young, QB, Denton Ryan
- 2008: Garrett Gilbert, QB, Lake Travis
- 2007: Jacquizz Rodgers, RB, Rosenberg Lamar
