Wharton County Junior College athletes were recognized for their outstanding efforts during a recent ceremony held on the Wharton campus. From left are volleyball player Freedom Stephenson of Santa Fe, the volleyball team's Most Valuable Player; baseball player Brayden Evans of Pearland, the 2023 Dr. Ty Pate Academic Award recipient; volleyball player Kiah Barron of Corpus Christi, the 2023 Johnnie Frankie Award recipient; and rodeo team member Rylee Reina of Wharton, the rodeo team's Most Valuable Player (female).
WHARTON, TEXAS – Athletes from Wharton County Junior College’s three sports teams were recognized during the Spring 2023 semester for outstanding efforts both on and off the playing field.
During the WCJC Athletic Awards Luncheon – held earlier this spring in the Pioneer Student Center on the Wharton campus – presentations were made to top players who distinguished themselves on the field of competition as well as in the classroom.
Baseball player Brayden Evans of Pearland received the Dr. Ty Pate Academic Award, an honor established in the memory of the late WCJC administrator and former athlete that recognizes high academic achieving athletes. Evans played first base and outfield for the Pioneers and will continue his baseball career at Baylor University in Waco.
The Johnnie Frankie Award, a special honor for athletes who exhibit exceptional abilities and character, went to volleyball player Kiah Barron of Corpus Christi. Barron was a middle blocker for the Pioneers and has signed a letter of intent to continue her career at Jarvis Christian College in Hawkins. Jenny Banker, daughter of the late WCJC coach Johnnie Frankie, presented the award along with her grandson, Michael Frankie.
Athletes recognized for other honors included:
For event photos, click on the link below:
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