Washburn Rural’s Willingham named Kansas Gatorade Player of the Year

Washburn Rural high school soccer player Dylan Willingham has been named the 2025-26 Gatorade Kansas Boys Soccer Player of the Year. The announcement was made on Friday, June 12, recognising Willingham’s pivotal role in leading the Junior Blues to the Class 6A State Championship.

During the 2025-26 season, Willingham recorded 37 goals and seven assists, helping his team finish with a 19-1-1 record. His performance on the pitch was instrumental in securing the state title, marking the culmination of a dominant campaign for the senior forward.

Willingham is now the school’s all-time leading goal scorer, having also set the record for the most goals scored in a single season. His statistical output during the championship run underscores his status as the leading offensive threat in the state.

In addition to the Gatorade award, Willingham was named an All-American by the United Soccer Coaches federation. He is the only player from Kansas to receive this specific honour, distinguishing his performance on a national level within the high school soccer community.

Following the conclusion of his high school career, Willingham has committed to play college soccer at the University of Nebraska Omaha. He will join the Omaha Mavericks in the Summit League, continuing his development in collegiate athletics.

The award and subsequent achievements highlight a significant year for Washburn Rural soccer. Willingham’s transition to the next level of competition marks the end of an era for the Junior Blues, who benefited from his leadership and scoring prowess throughout the season.