The Polynesian Hall of Fame have named two of the best quarterbacks, in the Class of 2024, as co-recipients of the Polynesian High School Football Player of the Year. Dylan Raiola of Buford (Georgia) and Isaac Wilson of Corner Canyon (Utah) are this year’s honorees. Both players took part in Friday’s Polynesian Bowl All-Star Game that aired LIVE on NFL Network.
The Polynesian High School Football Player of the Year Award is presented annually to the most outstanding senior high school football player(s) of Polynesian Ancestry.
Raiola, who has signed his scholarship with the University of Nebraska, led the Buford to an 11-2 record and a No. 49 ranking in the High School Football America 300 national rankings, powered by NFL Play Football. He threw for 2,666 yards with 34 touchdowns.
Wilson, who will start his college career with the Utah Utes, led Corner Canyon to a 13-1 record and a No. 36 ranking in the HSFA 300. He threw for 4,595 yards and 49 touchdowns.
“On behalf of the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame Board of Directors, we congratulate Dylan Raiola and Isaac Wilson on their amazing seasons,” said Jesse Sapolu, Chairman of teh Polynesian Football Hall of Fame. “They have a bright future ahead of them and we are excited to follow their journey.”
Both players have ties to the NFL. Dylan’s father is Dominic Raiola, who was an offensive lineman in the National Football League for 14-years. Wilson’s brother Zach is currently a New York Jets quarterback.
Raiola and Wilson were chosen over offensive tackle Michael Uini of Copperas Cove (Texas), linebacker Kyngston Viliamu-Asa and cornerback Marcelles Williams of St. John Bosco (California), who were finalists for the award.
The first two winners of the award are currently playing the NFL — San Francisco 49ers safety Talanoa Hufanga (2017) and wide receiver Puka Nacua (2018).
Past Winners
2022 – Nico Iamaleava, QB – Warren (California)
2021 – Tetairoa McMillan, WR – Servite (California)
2020 – J.T. Tuimoloau, DE – Eastside Catholic (Washington)
2019 – DJ Uiagalelei, QB – St. John Bosco (California)
2018 – Puka Nacua, WR – Orem (Utah) and Taulia Tagovailoa, QB – Thompson (Alabama)
2017 – Talanoa Hufanga, S – Crescent Valley (Oregon)
