Williamson Wins Gatorade MN Player of the Year Award Again
No. 22 is a two-time champion. Now Owatonna senior Jason Williamson is a rare two-time winner of the Gatorade Minnesota Football Player of the Year Award. He joins Michael Floyd as a two-time honoree.
In a news release from Gatorade: "The award, which recognizes not only outstanding athletic excellence, but also high standards of academic achievement and exemplary character demonstrated on and off the field, distinguishes Williamson as Minnesota's best high school football player. Now a finalist for the prestigious Gatorade National Football Player of the Year award to be announced in December."
Williamson and the Huskies captured their second straight Class 5A football title November 24 with a thrilling 14-3 win over St. Thomas Academy. The highlight of the game was Williamson's spinning, tackle-breaking 71-yard touchdown run that lifted the Huskies to the lead.
He rushed for 3,012 yards this season, bringing his career total to 7.012, which is believed to be the second highest total in state history. He scored 46 touchdowns this season to reach a state-record 102 for his career.
Williamson volunteered as a youth football and basketball coach in addition to being an elementary school mentor. He has a 3.69 GPA and has verbally committed to the University of Minnesota.
The award comes with the opportunity to award a $1,000 grant to a youth sports organization. Last year Williamson named Special Olympics as his choice.
Also read: OHS football coaches look to keep the game fun.
Williamson is up for the Mr. Football Award for the state as well. The winner will be announced on December 16.