UTICA, NY - In terms of awards, no team in Utica football program history has racked up more accolades than this past season's squad, and that greatness extends well beyond the field. On Tuesday, College Sports Communicators released its list of Academic All-District selections for the 2025 season, with eight Pioneers being named among the nation's most dedicated scholar-athletes at each division and level of NCAA competition.
The 2025-26 Academic All-District Football Teams, selected by College Sports Communicators, recognize the nation's top student-athletes for their combined performances on the field and in the classroom. The CSC Academic All-America program separately recognizes honorees in four divisions — NCAA Division I, NCAA Division II, NCAA Division III and NAIA. Established in 1952, the Academic All-America program, selected by College Sports Communicators, honors the very best student-athletes each year for outstanding academic and athletic achievements. Your accomplishments are indicative of your passion as a true student-athlete. For an athlete to be considered for the status of Academic All-District, they must have compiled a cumulative GPA of 3.50 or higher, and must have played in all, or nearly all, of the team's contests. The award honors academic excellence and consistent participation, and is a prestigious honor to hold.
Here are the eight members of the Utica football team who were named as CSC Academic All-District honorees:
#0 Antonio Cianfarani (Scotia, NY/Scotia Glenville) | Senior | Wide Receiver
#9 Logan Frederick (Little Falls, NY/Little Falls) | Senior | Tight End
#14 Mekhi Bailey (Auburn, NY/Auburn) | Senior | Linebacker
#20 Luke Sheldon (Lake George, NY/Lake George Central) | Junior | Safety
#23 Isaiah Thomas (Kingston, NY/Kingston) | Sophomore | Linebacker
#27 Tyler Hall (Holbrook, NY/Sachem North) | Junior | Running Back
#40 Devin Taylor (New Port Richey, FL/Wendell Krinn Technical) | Senior | Punter
#62 Carson Tessitore (East Islip, NY/East Islip) | Senior | Offensive Line
