Kentucky Ag Athletes of the Year Awarded Scholarships

By Blake Jackson

Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell has recognized six Kentucky high school student-athletes for their outstanding contributions to both athletics and agriculture, awarding them the 2025 Kentucky High School Athletic Association-Kentucky Department of Agriculture Ag Athletes of the Year awards.

During a ceremony at the KHSAA Boy's Sweet Sixteen State Basketball Tournament on March 28 at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Commissioner Shell presented the awards, highlighting the valuable skills these students have developed.

"Being part of high school athletics teaches you teamwork, leadership, and resilience. Those are the same skills and strengths you need to find success in agriculture," Shell said. "These same skills can also translate to a successful academic career. At the Kentucky Department of Agriculture, we recognize a solid educational foundation can translate to great success in life, whether that education is through a four-year institution or a trade school. We are pleased to join our partners at the KHSAA to reward scholarships to the Commonwealth’s best young athletes and agriculturists.”

Two students, Abby Knarr from Williamstown Independent High School and Aiden Manley from Menifee County High School, received $2,000 scholarships as Outstanding Ag Athletes of the Year. Additionally, Kenton Johnson, Jackson Major, Laney Pease, and Harper Richey each received $1,000 scholarships.

These one-time scholarships, designed to support further education, are payable to any two- or four-year institution or trade school.

They are funded by the "Ag Tag" Fund, which relies on voluntary donations from Kentucky motorists when they purchase or renew farm vehicle license plates.

Last year, Kentucky farmers contributed $931,201.81 to the Ag Tag Program.

The Kentucky Department of Agriculture, in partnership with the KHSAA, aims to recognize and reward students who excel in both athletics and agriculture, acknowledging the importance of a strong educational foundation for future success in any career path.

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