Who Will Be Crowned the Top Athlete of 2025?

The year 2025 is coming to a close, and sports fans have a chance to make their voices heard. A poll is now open to determine the Watertown Public Opinion-Aberdeen News Athlete of the Year. Twelve exceptional athletes from northeastern South Dakota are in the running, evenly split between boys and girls.

Eligibility & Voting Details

• Athletes had to compete in fall, winter, and spring seasons to qualify.
• Voting is open until midnight on January 4, 2026.
• This is a special opportunity to recognize the dedication and hard work of these athletes.
• The regular weekly Athlete of the Week poll will resume after this vote.

Preseason Player of the Year Honors

Before the poll, several athletes were recognized as Preseason Player of the Year:

• Olivia Anderson (Watertown Girls) - Wrestling
• Blake Thompson (Mobridge-Pollock) - Girls Basketball
• Westyn Thorpe (Leola-Frederick Area Boys) - Basketball

Latest Athlete of the Week Winner

In the most recent Athlete of the Week poll, Katherine Prahl (Great Plains Lutheran Girls Basketball) won the honor for the period of December 1-22.

This poll is a fantastic way to celebrate local athletes and engage the community in sports. Don't miss your chance to vote!