Aliquippa junior topped 2,000 yards on the ground, broke school record for career rushing yards.
Each year since 2006, MaxPreps has recognized outstanding performers in high school football. America's source for high school sports continues the tradition to close out the 2023 season by naming the top player in each state. Selections are based on team success and individual excellence in addition to local and state accolades.
Tiqwai Hayes of
Aliquippa is the 2023 MaxPreps Pennsylvania High School Football Player of the Year. The 6-foot-1, 200-pound junior running back led the Quips to a 14-0 record and Class 4A state title.
Hayes finished with 2,130 yards rushing and 23
touchdowns while also making an impact on defense.
MaxPreps Pennsylvania Player of the Year Tiqwai Hayes ran for 222 yards and three touchdowns in the state championship game victory over Dallas. (Photo: Tim Kreider)
In a 60-14 win over Dallas in the championship game, Hayes ran 18 times for 222 yards and three touchdowns. It was Aliquippa's second state title in three years and fifth all-time.
With a year left to play, Hayes broke the school record for career rushing yards with 5,887 to go with 79 touchdowns. He also topped the 2,000-yard mark last fall en route to MaxPreps Sophomore All-America honors.
Hayes committed to Penn State in September over 13 other offers.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team.
Past MaxPreps Pennsylvania Players of the Year
2020 — Kyle McCord, QB, St. Joseph's Prep (Philadelphia)
2021 — Nicholas Singleton, RB, Governor Mifflin (Shillington)
2022 — Stone Saunders, QB, Bishop McDevitt (Harrisburg)
