Dominick Collins turned doubts about his size into fuel for one of the most prolific senior seasons in Princeton High School history, emerging as one of the state’s most dangerous playmakers and earning MetroNews High School Football Player of the Year honors. Despite being undersized, Collins’ elite speed, precise route running, and ability to make big plays consistently separated him from defenders, even when facing double coverage. Over 14 games, he hauled in 84 receptions for 1,904 yards and 27 touchdowns, added five rushing scores, and delivered multiple standout performances on the postseason’s biggest stage, including 330 receiving yards and four touchdowns in a Class AAA semifinal thriller and 169 yards with both team scores in the state final. His chemistry with quarterback Chance Barker, leadership under first-year head coach Keith Taylor, and growth into a selfless, team-first leader helped guide the Tigers to a Class AAA runner-up finish and a Super Six appearance. With a reputation as one of the best athletes ever to wear a Princeton uniform and a future in college football ahead, Collins leaves a lasting legacy defined by production, perseverance, and impact both on and off the field.

MetroNews High School Football Player of the Year Voting

Top 5 Players, School, Points, First Place Votes

Dominick Collins, Princeton 66 (8) 

Murphy Clement, Martinsburg 37 (5)

Maxwell Molessa, Williamstown 32 (4)

Matt Frye, Scott 12 (1)

Rashad Reid, Martinsburg 11 (2)

MetroNews Football Player of the Year History

2022 — Judah Price, Independence 

2021 — Hudson Clement, Martinsburg

2020 — Blake Hartman, Musselman

2019 — Jarod Bowie, Martinsburg

2018 — Connor Neal, Fairmont Senior

2017 — Mookie Collier, Bluefield

2016 — Jeremy Dillon, Mingo Central

2015 — Cody Mitchell, Point Pleasant

2014 — Kentre Grier, South Charleston

2013 — Ross Comis, Madonna