Ponder High Senior Succumbs to Injuries from Sledding Accident

Tragically, a senior from Ponder High School, Caden Nowicki, has died following a sledding accident earlier this week. The incident occurred on Monday afternoon, and he had been hospitalized since then.
Caden Nowicki: A Life Cut Short
Caden Nowicki, 17, succumbed to his injuries on Thursday afternoon. His passing was confirmed by Ponder football coach Marcus Schulz through a heartfelt social media post. “With heavy hearts, our #44 Caden Nowicki crossed through the gates into our Heavenly Father’s arms today,” Schulz expressed. The coach emphasized the community’s loss, remarking that God had chosen Nowicki as an inside linebacker.
Details of the Accident
According to a report from the Texas Department of Public Safety, Nowicki was involved in a sledding accident where he was seated on a kayak being pulled by an ATV. During the ride, he was thrown from the kayak and collided with a fence, resulting in severe injuries. He was subsequently taken to Medical City Denton, where he was treated in the ICU. Despite the best efforts of medical staff, he passed away two days later.
Community Response and Support
In the wake of this tragedy, Coach Schulz has been providing updates and support to the Nowicki family and the local community. “Please continue to pray for the Nowicki family,” he urged. The Ponder Independent School District (ISD) is also stepping in to support the family. They are collecting food gift cards for the family at their administrative building, located at 300 W. Bailey Street, when the district reopens.
Sledding Safety Awareness
This sad event is not isolated. Caden Nowicki is one of three victims of recent sledding incidents in North Texas, particularly following Winter Storm Fern, which left the region covered in ice and snow. Two teenage girls from Frisco also lost their lives in a similar sledding accident when they struck a tree while being towed by a Jeep. Local officials are urging residents to exercise caution while sledding in these hazardous conditions.
- Name: Caden Nowicki
- Age: 17
- Incident Date: Monday afternoon
- Passed Away: Thursday afternoon
- Community Support: Food gift card collection
- Location of Support: Ponder ISD admin building, 300 W. Bailey Street




