Ponder High School Senior Dies After Sledding Incident

Caden Nowicki was critically injured while snow sledding on Monday, officials say.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 8:31pm

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A Ponder High School senior named Caden Nowicki has died after being critically injured in a sledding incident on Monday. The district's athletic director announced Nowicki's passing on Thursday night, stating that he had "crossed through the gates into our heavenly Father's arms." According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, Nowicki was riding in a kayak that was being towed behind an ATV when the kayak left the road, causing him to be ejected into a fence.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the dangers of winter sports and recreational activities, especially when involving motorized vehicles. It comes just days after two 16-year-old girls in Frisco, Texas died in a similar sledding accident. The Ponder community is now mourning the loss of a young student-athlete.

The details

Caden Nowicki, a senior at Ponder High School, was critically injured on Monday while snow sledding. He was riding in a kayak that was being towed behind an ATV when the kayak left the road, causing Nowicki to be ejected into a fence. Nowicki was hospitalized but succumbed to his injuries on Thursday, according to the school district's athletic director.

  • Nowicki was injured in the sledding incident on Monday.
  • Nowicki passed away on Thursday at 1:48pm.

The players

Caden Nowicki

A senior at Ponder High School who died after being critically injured in a sledding incident.

James Hill

The superintendent of the Ponder Independent School District.

Marcus Schulz

The athletic director of the Ponder Independent School District who announced Nowicki's passing.

Texas Department of Public Safety

The state agency that provided details on the sledding incident.

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What they’re saying

“With heavy hearts our #44 Caden Nowicki crossed through the gates into our heavenly Fathers arms today. We all know God hand selected His inside linebacker at 1:48pm. Please continue to pray for the Nowicki family. Rest Easy & Fly High #44 We Love You Wicki.”

— Marcus Schulz, Athletic Director, Ponder Independent School District (Facebook)

What’s next

The school district and local authorities will continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Nowicki's tragic death.

The takeaway

This heartbreaking incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks involved in winter sports and the importance of safety precautions, especially when motorized vehicles are involved. The Ponder community is now coming together to mourn the loss of a beloved student-athlete.