Wharton County Junior College athletes were recently recognized for their achievements. From left are Juan Cantua-Linnear of Forney, Region XIV All-Academic Team; Zeke Martinez of Laredo, Men's Rodeo MVP; Kolby Wilson of Palacios, Region XIV All-Academic Team; Reese Beheler of Sugar Land, Region XIV All-Academic Team; Preston Watkins of Deer Park, Region XIV All-Academic Team and Dr. Ty Pate Academic Award; Brian Panneton of Tomball, Region XIV All-Academic Team and NJCAA Academic All-American; Levi Castilleja of San Antonio, Region XIV All-Academic Team and NJCAA Academic All-American; and Conner Doucet of the Woodlands, Region XIV All-Academic Team.
WHARTON, TEXAS – Athletes from Wharton County Junior College’s baseball, rodeo and volleyball teams were recognized at the 2024 Athletic Awards Luncheon for their achievements both on and off the playing field.
During the event, held at the Pioneer Student Center on the Wharton campus, presentations were made to top players who distinguished themselves in their chosen sports.
Baseball player Preston Watkins of Deer Park 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. Watkins is a pitcher for the Pioneers.
The Johnnie Frankie Award, a special honor for athletes who exhibit exceptional abilities and character, went to volleyball player Sadie Claxton of Giddings. Claxton was a libero/defensive specialist for the Pioneers. Jenny Banker, daughter of the late WCJC coach Johnnie Frankie, presented the award.
Alyssa Edwards of Needville was named WCJC Volleyball Most Valuable Player, Micah Wallace of Lipan was named the WCJC Women’s Rodeo MVP and Zeke Martinez of Laredo was named the WCJC Men’s Rodeo MVP. The baseball team has not yet announced an MVP as the season is still under way.
A special presentation was also made to WCJC on behalf of WCJC alumnus Clifford Branch, who was a member of WCJC’s track and football programs in 1969. Branch, who passed away in 2019, played for the Oakland Raiders during his career, competing in three Super Bowls and four Pro Bowls. He was named to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2022 and the WCJC Athletic Hall of Fame in 2021. Family representative Elaine Anderson presented a Pro Football Hall of Fame patch to the college.
Athletes recognized during the event included:
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