RICHMOND, Ky. – Defensive back Jaheim Ward and linebacker Frank Lee IV have been named to the College Sports Communicators Academic All-District Team, as announced by the organization on Tuesday.
 
The duo earned the recognition after both were named to the United Athletic Conference All-Academic Team in December.
 
An All-American and First Team All-UAC selection this postseason, Ward posted a 3.80 grade point average while graduating with a degree in sport management.
 
Lee recorded a 3.75 GPA in pursuit of a master's in technology management while already holding a bachelor's degree in physics.
 
On the field, Ward produced 82 total tackles, including 50 solo efforts, the seventh most in the UAC in 2025, while adding six pass breakups, one forced fumble, and a 37-yard pick-six in the final play of his stellar collegiate career against Utah Tech.
 
In his final season, Lee made 42 total tackles (28 solo), 9.5 TFLs, 4 sacks, 2 QB hurries, and one pass breakup.
 
Lee and Ward's presence helped the Colonels record the 18th most turnovers gained (20), and the 11th most fumbles recovered in all of FCS (10), as the Colonels' defense ended the regular season tied for the most defensive TDs with 5.
 
To qualify for the team, student-athletes must have a cumulative 3.5 GPA, have participated in 90 percent of contests during the season or be a starter in 66 percent of contests, and must be at least a sophomore both athletically and academically.
 
In 2024-25, less than five percent of student-athletes earned this prestigious honor across all sports and divisions.