For a list of the other Gatorade State Football POYs, click here.

THE WINNER: Matt Sewall

THE BASICS

School: Portsmouth (R.I.)

Grade: Senior

Position: QB/DB

Height: 5-foot-9

Weight: 160 pounds

Athletic achievement: He rushed for 1,859 yards and 23 touchdowns on 227 carries this past season, leading the Patriots (9-3) to the Division I state semifinals. Sewall also threw for 735 yards and three scores on 53-of-101 passing. A 2012 Providence Journal Second Team All-State selection, he recorded 69 tackles, three forced fumbles, two interceptions and two fumble recoveries on defense.

Academic excellence: Sewall has maintained a 3.35 GPA.

Exemplary character: He has volunteered locally as a youth basketball coach and as part of multiple community service initiatives in association with his church youth group. He’s also donated his time to multiple beautification projects in the area.

THE PRAISE

“Matt Sewall this year has been a human highlight film,” said Geoff Marcone, head coach of La Salle Academy (Providence, R.I.). “He has great speed and once he’s in the open field, no one is catching him. Every time he touches the ball something big could happen.”

THE FUTURE: Sewall remains undecided upon a collegiate destination.