Wildcats to face old, new opponents next year

The University Interscholastic League (UIL) announced its district realignment Thursday, February 1, and the Whitney Wildcats will battle some familiar foes as they form District 5-3A Division 1 with West, Grandview and Maypearl. The Wildcats will also square off with newcomers, the Mexia Black Cats and Groesbeck Goats.

The six-team district gives Whitney three additional non-district games and allows Athletic Director David Haynes Jr. to prepare for district as he sees fit. “We are excited. It’s going to be fun and challenging at the same time,” said Haynes.

Groesbeck and Mexia are no strangers to each other as the two teams have competed in District 8-3A for the last two years. Whitney has recently seen Groesbeck as the Wildcats beat the Goats 67-14 November 11, in a Bi-District Championship. Groesbeck ended the year with an overall record of 7-4.

Mexia missed the postseason with a record of 3-7. The Goats and Black Cats have also been sharpening themselves against solid teams like 16-0 state champs Malakoff and Teague.

When asked about the potential increase in competitiveness, Coach Haynes said, “I love it. This gives these kids a chance to show how hard they have been working.”

The Lady ‘Cats will play volleyball in District 17-3A with West, Troy, McGregor, HSI-Waco and Clifton.

In basketball, the ‘Cats and Lady ‘Cats will face West, Troy, McGregor, HSI-Waco and Clifton in District 17-3A.

Blum and Covington will continue to compete against each other in Class 1A Division 1 football. Joining the Bobcats and Owls in District 9 will be Avalon, Milford and Walnut Springs.

The Aquilla Cougars will be in football District 11-1A with Abbott, Coolidge, Gholson and Penelope.

In Class 1A basketball, Blum and Covington will face Avalon, Bynum, Kopperl, Milford and Morgan to make up District 23.

Aquilla High School will play basketball in District 26-1A with Abbott, Cranfills Gap, Evant, Gholson, Jonesboro and Oglesby.

In volleyball, District 17-1A will be Blum, Covington, Kopperl and Morgan. Aquilla will play volleyball in District 18-1A with Abbott and Gholson.