How Tetairoa McMillan is Celebrating Polynesian Culture

Tetairoa McMillan is one of the most talented wide receivers in the 2025 NFL Draft class. His speed, versatility, and impressive route-running have earned several teams’ attention as the draft draws closer.

What many people may not know about the University of Arizona wide receiver is that he is a proud representative of Polynesian individuals everywhere. 

McMillan recently received the 2024 Polynesian College Football Player of the Year award, an honor given to the most outstanding Polynesian college football player who exemplifies great ability and integrity.

The Waimanalo, Hawaii native received the Polynesian High School Football Player of the Year award in 2021. He was then named a finalist for the college class of the award during his 2022 and 2023 seasons but ultimately fell short of winning. 

Now, having declared for the 2025 Draft, McMillan can officially enter the NFL as a two-time award recipient. He’s also the first Wildcat to receive the award in its 10-year history.

“I’m truly humbled and blessed to receive the Polynesian College Football Player of the Year Award,” said McMillan.. “I want to say thank you to the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame Committee for blessing me with this prestigious honor.”

Chairman and Co-Founder of the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame Jesse Sapolu congratulated McMillan when he received the award in December. 

“His incredible talent, determination, and dedication have inspired not only his team, but also the entire Polynesian community,” Sapolu said. “We look forward to celebrating this achievement with him next month in Hawaii.”

How Arizona is contributing to cultural awareness

Arizona’s overall Polynesian influence was hard to miss this season, especially after the Wildcats’ Big 12 Media Days last summer.

McMillan, along with safety Gunner Maldonado, linebacker Jacob Manu, and quarterback Noah Fifita, are all Polynesian individuals. In July, those four athletes, plus head coach Brent Brennan, sported leis made by McMillan’s mom. 

According to All Sports Tucson, Shawny handcrafted the leis and brought them from her homeland to the Las Vegas hotel where the athletes were staying. She even kept the leaves fresh by storing them in a cooler. 

Brennan described the leis as “super cool” and noted the importance of receiving them from Shawny.

“It’s always an incredible honor when the mother of a Polynesian player gives you one of these,” Brennan said. “I am super honored to wear it. … Just an awesome woman. Those players are really, really special kids, and it’s awesome. Everyone was excited to wear it.”

“It’s been awesome to see that culture’s impact on the game of football,” he added.

McMillan’s impact

As far as McMillan, he’s simply grateful to be able to represent his culture and hopes to be a positive influence on other Polynesian individuals.

“For the Polynesian players who came before me, you guys have laid the foundation and set the precedent for me and future generations,” said McMillan. “I am a product of all who came before me, my ancestors have paved the way for me to be successful today.”

“They have inspired me to be where I am and who I am,” he continued. “They have also taught me the importance of humility and gratitude. I hope that I can be a reflection of the Polynesian culture, not only through my play but my character. Mahalo.”

Victoria Jonach is an aspiring writer and media analyst fascinated by the activities players participate in off the football field. Growing up in New Jersey, she is a New York Giants fan and attends Rutgers University, pursuing a career in Journalism and Media Studies. She writes for FirstRoundMock.com covering anticipated draft picks and their acts of volunteerism, entrepreneurship, and other interests that shape these individuals.