Sports

Maile Deutsch capped a four-year career at McPherson College by being named the NAIA National Player of the Year in 2021. The 5’6 powerhitter led the nation in batting with a robust .519 average.

When the University Interscholastic League announced changes in classifications in February, it included district alterations. Avalon remains in Class 1A in all sports, as well as holding each team in the larger of two divisions.

Dylan Wright, who played at both Ferris and Ennis before transferring to West Mesquite, enjoyed a productive season in the Big Ten at Minnesota last fall.

Second-year Head Coach Steven Greek has a loaded lineup this season, especially on offense. It has fans buzzing about the potential for the Jackets to sting opponents with scoring punch.

An encore All-Star week is taking shape for Ellis County softball and baseball players for Tuesday and Wednesday, June 14-15, in Waxahachie.

Once described as the Monster Who Ate Pittsburgh by The Ennis News after a dominating performance as a two-way lineman for Palmer, Caleb Hernandez, has secured a scholarship to play at NCAA Division I University of Texas at San Antonio.

Keeping the dream alive as a remnant of the 2014 state champion Ennis football Lions is fifth year senior Deven Big Dee Collins. Along with teammate Trendon Rolen, the tandem of 300-pound offensive tackles were sophomore bookends that helped pave the way to a 14-2 season and a 38-35 title win over Cedar Park at AT&T Stadium.

Kademon Graff, a former dualsport standout at Ennis, recently concluded an exciting, redshirt sophomore baseball season at Northeastern State University. After transferring from NCAA Division II Emporia State (Ks), the 5’10, 165-pounder earned a starting infield position on a team that posted a 38-18 record this year.

An end of one of the most respected coaching eras ever at Ennis closed its books after 17-years. David Kilpatrick enjoyed a tenure as head coach of the Lady Lions varsity girls’ basketball team.