Gonzaga's Kainoa Winston named Gatorade DC Football Player of the Year
Kainoa Winston named DC's Gatorade Player of the Year
Gatorade has announced Kainoa Winston of Gonzaga College High School is the 2024-25 Gatorade D.C. Football Player of the Year. Winston is the ninth Gatorade District of Columbia Football Player of the Year to be chosen from Gonzaga College High School.
WASHINGTON - Kainoa Winston, a standout senior at Gonzaga College High School, has been named the 2024-25 Gatorade District of Columbia Football Player of the Year, recognizing his exceptional talent on the field, academic success, and commitment to his community.
The Gatorade Player of the Year program, now in its 40th year, highlights the nation’s top high school athletes in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Winston, a 5-foot-11, 195-pound safety and running back, is the ninth Gonzaga player to earn this prestigious honor.
"This award is a blessing," Winston told FOX 5's Shomari Stone. "Being recognized as the best student-athlete in D.C. with this prestigious accolade means a lot to me."
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Winston’s athletic achievements this season were impressive. He tallied 71 tackles, two interceptions, two forced fumbles, and blocked two kicks, helping lead the Eagles to the semifinals of the Washington Catholic Athletic Conference Capital Division Tournament.
On offense, Winston contributed with 225 rushing yards, two touchdowns, two passing scores, and one touchdown catch. His performance earned him a spot in the Navy All-American Bowl in January.
"Kainoa is an amazing athlete and game-changer," said Derian Quick, head coach of Archbishop Carroll High School, in a statement. "He really was a force in the game we played, and we had to game-plan away from him in the second half."
Off the field, Winston exemplifies leadership and service. Gatorade’s recognition underscores not only Winston’s football talent but also his impact in the classroom and the community.
He has volunteered at the Father Horace McKenna Homeless Shelter and the Franciscan Monastery and has also coached youth football. An avid photographer, he balances these activities with academic excellence, maintaining a 3.71 GPA.
Last week, Winston signed with the University of Michigan on National Signing Day, choosing the Wolverines over offers from Oregon, Penn State, and Ohio State.
DC high school student joins University of Michigan Wolverines on National Signing Day
It’s National Signing Day — the first day that a high school senior can sign a binding letter of intent for college football. Kainoa Winston, who attends Gonzaga College High School in D.C., signed with the University of Michigan.