The Watertown Public Opinion/Aberdeen News Athlete of the Week Poll has triumphantly returned, capturing the attention of northeastern South Dakota. After a brief hiatus for the Preseason Player of the Year polls, this popular poll is back, covering the intense first three weeks of the winter high school sports season, from December 1-22.
High school sports are a cherished tradition in South Dakota, where communities rally around their local athletes and celebrate sportsmanship, talent, and hard work. This spirit is epitomized by the Watertown Public Opinion/Aberdeen News Athlete of the Week Poll, which features ten standout candidates, all hailing from the northeastern part of the state. This bustling region, known for its vibrant communities and fervent support for youth sports, diligently follows and votes for its emerging sports stars.
Voting is open until midnight on Sunday, December 28, 2025, offering residents ample time to support their favorite local athletes. This tradition has become a highlight in regional sporting events, acknowledging the hard work and dedication of high school athletes as they balance rigorous training schedules with academic and personal commitments.
Olivia Anderson: A standout wrestler competing for the Watertown Girls wrestling team.
Highlighted among the preseason honorees is Westyn Thorpe, who claimed the Preseason Boys Basketball Player of the Year honor, showcasing his talent at Leola-Frederick Area. The region is also celebrating Olivia Anderson of Watertown Girls, recognized as the Preseason Player of the Year honoree for wrestling, and Blake Thompson of Mobridge-Pollock, who was named for girls basketball.
Westyn Thorpe: Known for his remarkable skills in boys basketball with Leola-Frederick Area.
The Watertown Public Opinion offers not just top-tier sports coverage but also engaging content like the new PLAY hub, filled with puzzles, games, and more. This multifaceted approach aims to provide entertainment and insights for all ages.
Watertown’s sports reporter, Roger Merriam, plays a vital role in connecting communities with the latest high school sports developments. His detailed coverage and passionate reporting can be accessed through email or by following him on X (formerly known as Twitter) at @PO_Sports.
In South Dakota, the commitment to high school sports goes beyond the field. It speaks to shared values, community support, and the acknowledgment of young athletes’ dreams and diligence. The Watertown Public Opinion/Aberdeen News Athlete of the Week Poll thus remains a testament to South Dakota’s rich sporting culture, its supportive communities, and the promising future of its athletes.
To immerse yourself in this celebration of athletic achievement, partake in the voting process and help shine a light on the hard work of these young athletes. Every vote counts and contributes to the spirited tradition of high school sports in South Dakota.
As the days progress towards December 28, ensure your voice is heard. Whether you’re a loyal fan or a proud member of one of these vibrant communities, South Dakota eagerly awaits your decision in determining the next Athlete of the Week.
For further updates, keep checking back with the Watertown Public Opinion and Aberdeen News, as they continue to deliver the latest sports headlines and features across South Dakota.