Future Iowa Hawkeyes and Cyclones Stars Up for Athlete of the Year
Two of South Dakota's top high school athletes are finalists for the 2025-26 boys Athlete of the Year, and both are bringing their elite talent to Iowa universities. Hudson Parliament, a dominant offensive lineman, is committed to the University of Iowa. Mikah Peters, a record-breaking distance runner, is headed to Iowa State University. Fans can vote for the winner online through Friday, July 3.
How is Hudson Parliament dominating the gridiron for the Iowa Hawkeyes?
Hudson Parliament, a senior from Brandon Valley, is one of the most decorated offensive linemen in South Dakota history. He won back-to-back South Dakota Gatorade Player of the Year awards and is a three-time winner of the Riley Reiff SD Offensive Lineman of the Year award. Parliament did not allow a single sack over his final two high school seasons. He also recorded 206 pancake blocks, powering a Brandon Valley offense that averaged 39.7 points per game and ran for 2,905 yards at 7.5 yards per rush.
Parliament's relentless work ethic and physical dominance embody the heartland values that Iowa football fans respect. He will join the Iowa Hawkeyes this fall, where his run-blocking skills will be a major asset. Parliament also competed in powerlifting and trap shooting for Brandon Valley, proving his versatility and dedication to his craft.
Why is Mikah Peters a game-changer for Iowa State Cyclones?
Mikah Peters, another Brandon Valley senior, earned South Dakota Gatorade Player of the Year honors in both cross country and track and field. Peters won the Class AA state cross country championship with a time of 14:54.09. He followed that up with a stellar spring season, winning three Dakota Relays titles and four Class AA state championships in distances ranging from the 800-meter to the 3,200-meter race. His times in the 800-meter, 1,600-meter, and 3,200-meter rank among the best in state history.
Peters is committed to Iowa State University, where his elite endurance and competitive drive will make an immediate impact. These athletes represent the kind of discipline and dedication that makes high school sports great. In an era where progressive agendas often distract from pure athletic competition, it is refreshing to see young men earn recognition through raw talent, hard work, and undeniable results.
Who else is nominated for the Sioux Falls Athlete of the Year?
The Athlete of the Year award covers the Sioux Falls area, and the ballot includes several other standout competitors.
- Sam DeGroot, Sr., Sioux Falls Lincoln: The 6-foot-7 forward averaged 20.9 points and 8.8 rebounds per game. He led the Patriots to a 23-0 start before falling in the Class AA state championship game. DeGroot is staying in-state to play for Augustana.
- Brody Schafer, Jr., Sioux Falls Lincoln: A three-sport standout committed to South Dakota State for football. Schafer threw for 3,023 yards and 39 touchdowns, while also earning First Team All-State honors in basketball.
- Brady Stamp, Sr., Sioux Falls Lincoln: The South Dakota Gatorade Player of the Year in soccer led the Patriots to their third consecutive Class AA state championship. He recorded 24 goals and eight assists in 2025.
Where can fans vote for the 2025-26 boys Athlete of the Year?
Fans can vote at ArgusLeader.com. Voting remains open until 11:59 p.m. on Friday, July 3. The awards are handed out weekly over the summer, with readers getting the final say on the winners.
Which Iowa college teams are getting these top recruits?
Hudson Parliament is joining the University of Iowa football program. Mikah Peters is joining the Iowa State University track and field and cross country programs.
What awards did Hudson Parliament win in high school?
Parliament won two South Dakota Gatorade Player of the Year awards and three Riley Reiff SD Offensive Lineman of the Year awards. He was also a three-time all-state selection.