The Mt. Enterprise Wildcats have made headlines by securing significant accolades during the District 11-2A Division II All-District awards for the 2025 season. Senior running back and linebacker Kaegan Ash was named the District MVP, highlighting his exceptional performance throughout the season. Ash, who has committed to play for Texas Tech, shattered multiple records, including the all-time state career rushing record with an impressive total of 11,382 yards. His contributions led the Wildcats to an undefeated district championship and a remarkable journey to the state semifinals, marking the program’s best postseason performance to date.
In addition to Ash’s recognition, junior quarterback and linebacker Joshua Bennett earned the title of Defensive Player of the Year after leading the team with 163 tackles. The coaching staff, including Head Coach Scott Ponder and assistants Preston Blevins, Chad Hlavaty, Matt Hubert, Robert Waldon, and James Talley, received the honor of Coaching Staff of the Year for their guidance throughout the season.
Acknowledging Top Performers and New Talent
The awards acknowledged other standout players across the district. Senior Jesse Ellington from Grapeland was named Lineman of the Year, while Lovelady’s senior quarterback Cody James took home the Offensive Player of the Year title. The Offensive Newcomer of the Year award was shared between sophomores Lucas Castleberry of Cushing and Trenton Cook from Lovelady, highlighting the emergence of young talent within the district. Additionally, senior Brady McCullough of Lovelady was recognized as the Special Teams Player of the Year.
The All-District awards are determined through votes by district coaches, ensuring that the selections reflect the views of those most familiar with the players’ performances.
First Team Selections Showcase Diverse Talent
The First Team Offensive selections prominently featured players from the Mt. Enterprise Wildcats, including Bennett at quarterback, along with Aadin Alsup, Jase Webb, and Tanner Wilburn in key roles. The list also included standout players from other schools in the district, such as Elijah Dorsey and Rylan Holleman from Overton, and Maleek Johnson and Sean Walker from Grapeland.
On the defensive side, Mt. Enterprise again showcased its strength with Ryan McKelvey, Coy Freeman, and Lucas Burkhardt earning spots on the First Team Defense. Other notable defensive players included Brody Brown from Overton and Diego Fajardo from Grapeland.
The diversity of talent across the district is evident in the utility positions, with Mt. Enterprise’s Antonio Hernandez recognized for his versatility, playing as an offensive lineman, outside linebacker, and inside linebacker.
The Second Team selections also highlighted several players who made significant contributions throughout the season, ensuring a comprehensive recognition of talent across the district.
The achievements of the Mt. Enterprise Wildcats this season not only underscore the hard work and dedication of the players and coaching staff but also showcase the competitive spirit of District 11-2A Division II. As the Wildcats reflect on their successes, the focus will undoubtedly shift toward building on this foundation for future seasons.
