Tate Taylor Named Gatorade Texas T&F Player Of The Year

Just days before the announcement, the Harlan junior capped off a dominant season by winning the 100 meters at Nike Outdoor Nationals with a blazing 10.10, defeating a field of the nation's top sprinters. That followed an incredible outdoor campaign, highlighted by his wind-legal 9.92 to win the UIL 6A state title, setting a new U.S. high school national record. The time also ranks as the No. 1 all-time world mark for U18 athletes and No. 2 all-time for U20.

Taylor didn't stop there. He added a UIL state championship in the 200 meters with a time of 20.14, tying the No. 4 all-time U.S. high school mark. In Texas history, only Roy Martin's 20.13 from 1985 is faster.

His success began indoors, where he placed runner-up in the 60 meters at Nike Indoor Nationals with a 6.64 and won the indoor national title in the 200 meters with a 20.46-another elite mark.

To further emphasize the magnitude of his 9.92 in the 100m: it's a time that would have won every Olympic gold medal prior to 1992, and would have qualified for every Olympic 100m final in history.

Off the track, Taylor carries a B-plus GPA and is known for his strong character. He leans on his faith and gives back through volunteer work with the Special Olympics in San Antonio-elements that helped solidify his candidacy for the Gatorade honor.

As he enters his senior year, Taylor is not only rewriting the high school record books but also setting the standard for excellence on and off the track.

Winning the state award puts Taylor in the running for the Gatorade National POY.

Tate Taylor's MileSplit Athlete Profile

 High School