In a remarkable achievement for both the player and the program, Kentucky tight end Josh Kattushas earned a spot as a finalist for the esteemed 15th annual Pop Warner College Football Award. This honor recognizes student-athletes who excel both on the field and in academia.
The recipient of this coveted award will be revealed on December 9 during the 67th Pop Warner Super Bowl, which will take place at Camping World Stadium. Kattus stands tall among three other finalists, marking a significant honor for the young athlete.
According to a statement released by UK Athletics, Kattus has established himself as a key contributor to the Wildcats, having participated in 33 career games, starting in 15 of them. He has logged an impressive 21 receptions for 310 yards and five touchdowns. Highlighting his season, Kattus made crucial plays including a pivotal 27-yard touchdown catch in the first quarter against then No. 7 Tennessee and a four-yard touchdown grab against No. 3 Texas. Notably, he scored the game-winning touchdown with a recovery of a fumble against the then No. 6 Ole Miss.
Beyond the gridiron, Kattus shines academically as well. A communications major, he has been recognized on the Dean’s List three times and earned spots on both the First-Year SEC Academic Honor Roll and the SEC Fall Academic Honor Roll during his freshman and sophomore years, respectively.
Moreover, Kattus has a commitment to community service that speaks volumes about his character. In May 2024, he participated in the Dancing with the Lexington Stars event, raising over $34,000 for charitable causes including the Lexington Rotary Club Endowment Fund and Surgery on Sunday, a nonprofit that offers free outpatient procedures. Kattus and his dance partner, Mattie Lewis, danced their way to victory, clinching the coveted Mirror Ball trophy.
Since 2022, Kattus and several teammates have routinely visited Kentucky Children’s Hospital, bringing joy to young patients through games and companionship, striving to ease the burdens of hospital stays. His philanthropic endeavors also extend to volunteering at Lexington’s Ronald McDonald House and the Scott County Humane Society.
The Pop Warner Little Scholars National College Football Award is set to be announced on December 9, coinciding with the exciting Pop Warner Super Bowl festivities running from December 7 to 14. Notable past winners of this prestigious award include names like Tony Bradford from Texas Tech, Prince Amukamarafrom Nebraska, and Michael Pittman, Jr. from USC, showcasing a legacy of excellence.
Since its inception in 1929, Pop Warner Little Scholars has been the oldest youth football, cheerleading, and dance organization in the nation, prioritizing academics as an essential component of participation. For more on Pop Warner and its programs, visit their website at www.popwarner.com or follow them on social media.
