MaxPreps is recognizing outstanding performers in high school flag football to close out the fall 2026 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.
Tomalak threw for 4,590 yards and 72 touchdowns against just five interceptions. She also ran for 1,587 yards and 18 more scores.
On the defensive side of the ball, Tomalak pulled 56 flags and had 15 interceptions.
In seven playoff contests, Tomalak accounted for 1,623 yards and 21 touchdowns while grabbing three interceptions defensively.
Tomalak finished her career with 132 passing and rushing touchdowns.
Participation in flag football topped 100,000 athletes nationwide for the first time during the 2025-26 school year, an increase of 48.7 percent over 2024-25 alone. More than 20 states will sanction championships through the fall, winter and spring seasons in 2026-27.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team, which will be released at the end of the spring season.
MaxPreps Illinois Players of the Year
2024 – Lily Mayer, Fremd
2025 – Aribella Spandiary, Maine South
