MOORHEAD, Minn. -- MSU Moorhead freshman kicker Max Watson has been recognized by the Fred Mitchell Award, which listed the Fargo, N.D. native on their 'placekickers for excellence' list through October. 

Watson is one of 14 Division II kickers listed and is the only NCAA Division II freshman noted by the Fred Mitchell Award. The true frosh is one of three NSIC kickers on the list along with Minnesota Duluth's Curtis Cox and Minnesota State's Matthew Jaeger.

"The first two months of this season has seen some exceptional kicking that we are more than pleased to recognize," said Fred Mitchell. "The 37-person Selection Committee will continue to monitor on-field performances, as well as the community service contributions of these remarkable individuals."

The Fargo North High School product has enjoyed a wonderful freshman campaign for the Dragons, connecting on seven of eight field goal attempts. Watson has a season-best of 45 yards, which is the longest field goal by an MSUM kicker since 2009. The freshman has also connected on 19 of 22 point after attempts and has shown his prowess for clutch kicking. Watson earned his first game-winning kick on September 28 on a 40-yard strike that sunk Augustana, 43-41. For his effort against the Vikings, Watson was named the NSIC's Special Teams Player of the Week. Watson has also been an asset on kickoffs, totaling 2,241 yards on 37 kickoffs, which has included 12 touchbacks. 

The Fred Mitchell Award will recognize kickers that were nominated by their schools or are at the top of their division for terrific performances through November 23, 2024 (regular season statistics only). The recipient of the Fred Mitchell Award will be announced in mid-December based on performance on the football field and in the community.

Watson and the Dragons head to Minot, N.D., for a game with the Minot State Beavers on Saturday at 1 p.m.