David Sanders, a talented junior offensive tackle from Providence Day, has been selected as the 2023-24 Gatorade Player of the Year for North Carolina. This prestigious award, now in its 39th year, recognizes the top player in each state who excels not only on the field, but also in academics and community involvement.

Last year, Sanders’ Providence Day teammate Jadyn Davis won the prestigious award. Davis is a 4-star quarterback committed to Michigan.

Sanders is considered a highly coveted 5-star recruit in the graduating class of 2025. According to evaluations from Rivals, 247Sports, and ESPN, he holds the top spot among his peers and is also ranked second and fifth, respectively.

The athlete, who stands at 6 feet 7 inches and weighs 270 pounds, has significant responsibilities on both offense and defense for Providence Day. On offense, he received a grade of 93% for his individual blocking skills. On defense, he made 24 tackles, four sacks, 32 quarterback hurries, two pass breakups, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery.

In 2023, Providence Day emerged as the champion of the N.C. Independent Schools Athletic Association Division I state championship, marking their third consecutive win.

Sanders consistently earns a B average in his/her classes and actively participates in various community activities.

He is the head of the Providence Day School Student Diversity Club. The junior has volunteered for the Alexander Youth Network for Foster Children and the Grant Williams Family Foundation. Sanders has also served as a student intern with Novant Health Orthopedic Surgery.

“According to a press release from Gatorade, Chad Grier, the head coach at Providence Day School, praised David as an exceptional and exemplary student-athlete. Grier also stated that David is the most talented player he has ever coached. Not only can he excel on both defense and offense, but he is also a threat when it comes to blocking kicks. When given the opportunity, David is an unstoppable force and a joy to watch. Additionally, his natural charisma and leadership qualities on the field inspire his teammates to follow his lead. Despite his remarkable abilities, David remains humble, grounded, hardworking, and prioritizes the team above himself.”

Source: highschoolot.com