The Columbus Wildcats conjured up a third straight trip to the playoffs this football season, and seven players who powered them to another solid year have earned all-district honors in Class A District 5.

Leading the charge is senior Riley Kaalberg, who earns a first-team nod at running back. Kaalberg led Columbus with over 1,500 yards rushing and 19 touchdowns while averaging over nine yards per carry.

Fellow seniors Bryce Grimm and Itai Zapiensz paved the way for Kaalberg and are first-team selections on the offensive line after freeing up the Wildcats to rush for over 225 yards per game.

Keaton Clark and Markel Zapiensz make another pair of seniors up front who receive first-team accolades for their work on the defensive line. Zapiensz led Columbus with 11 tackles for loss and two-and-a-half sacks, while Clark added five stops for loss and one sack.

Linebacker Drew Totemeier led the team with 50.5 total tackles and makes the first team as a defensive utility player, while fellow junior Tyson Kaalberg gets a first-team nod at cornerback after making over 26 tackles and collecting an interception.

Sophomore Lamar Ceant receives all-district accolades on special teams as a returner after showing off his explosive ability. Ceant returned two kickoffs for touchdowns and averaged over 30 yards per kick return while also putting up over 20 yards per punt return.

Senior Payton White and juniors Trevor Phillips and Kason Dopler earn honorable mentions after helping the Wildcats to a 4-5 record.