West Central Reporter

Western Illinois University place kicker Antonio Chadha has been named to the 2025 Fred Mitchell Outstanding Placekicker Award preseason watch list. Chadha, a junior from Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, is recognized for his achievements both on and off the football field.

In his first season with the Leathernecks, Chadha played in all 12 games and made 15 field goals, including a long of 50 yards. He was selected as a third-team Phil Steele Big South-OVC all-conference player on special teams.

The Fred Mitchell Award honors placekickers at non-FBS colleges who excel during the football season and contribute positively in their communities. The award’s selection committee will consider performances through November 22, 2025, with the winner announced in December.

“The 2025 Fred Mitchell Award Preseason Watch List includes excellent kickers and community-minded individuals from over 750 non-FBS colleges in America,” said Mitchell. “Our 37-man Selection Committee looks forward to monitoring the seasons of these kickers, as well as those whose names might not appear on this list and yet deserve the utmost attention. Be sure to check our website http://www.fredmitchellaward.com for monthly recognition and updates. Many thanks to FMA co-chairmen Matt Cotiguala and Rob Perry for their efforts in crafting this list. Over the past 15 years, several kickers from the Preseason Watch List wound up kicking professionally. Best of luck to all kickers in the 2025 season!”

This year’s watch list includes 35 placekickers: ten returning members, three previous members who transferred to FBS programs, and representatives from FCS, Division II, Division III, NAIA, and CCCAA schools. The nominees include 16 seniors, 13 juniors, and six sophomores.

Chadha is among fifteen FCS players named to this year’s list.