Niwot's Hunter Robbie named Colorado's XC Gatorade Player of the Year

Robbie led his team to record-breaking performances at the state and national levels

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Hunter Robbie, a senior at Niwot High School in Colorado, has been named the Gatorade Colorado Cross Country Player of the Year. Robbie's team had a historic season, setting record-low scores in runaway wins at the Class 5A state meet and Nike Cross Nationals.

Why it matters

Robbie's individual and team accomplishments cement Niwot's status as one of the top high school cross country programs in the country. The Gatorade Player of the Year award is a prestigious honor that recognizes not just athletic excellence, but also leadership and character.

The details

Robbie finished second at the 5A state race in Colorado Springs, leading the Cougars to their third consecutive state title with a record-low score of 28 points. At Nike Cross Nationals in December, Robbie finished sixth, just 1.2 seconds behind his teammate Quinn Sullivan, as Niwot won their second straight national championship with the fewest points (61) in the 21-year history of the event.

  • In November, Robbie finished second at the 5A state race in Colorado Springs.
  • In December, Robbie finished sixth at Nike Cross Nationals in Portland, Oregon.

The players

Hunter Robbie

A senior at Niwot High School in Colorado and the Gatorade Colorado Cross Country Player of the Year.

Quinn Sullivan

Robbie's teammate at Niwot High School, who finished just ahead of Robbie at Nike Cross Nationals.

Niwot High School

The high school that Robbie and Sullivan attend, which has established itself as one of the top cross country programs in the country.

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What they’re saying

“I think winning state and national titles with my team are (my favorite) because I love celebrating with my team.”

— Hunter Robbie (dailycamera.com)

“I am so grateful that God has given me this ability to run, and I'm excited to see how things go from here.”

— Hunter Robbie (dailycamera.com)

What’s next

Robbie plans to continue his running career at Duke University next fall.

The takeaway

Robbie's individual and team accomplishments solidify Niwot High School's status as a national powerhouse in high school cross country. The Gatorade Player of the Year award is a testament to Robbie's exceptional talent, leadership, and dedication to his sport and his team.