The McCaskey Athletics Hall of Fame is inducting three new members during Homecoming this week. The event will take place on Friday, October 17, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. in the Schultz Transportation Gym at J.P. McCaskey High School.
This year’s inductees, Fredo Pagan (Class of 1981), Kanisa “Nisa” Wilson (Class of 1996), and the 2000 McCaskey Boys Basketball team, represent the skill, leadership, and character that define McCaskey Athletics.
For more than 87 years, McCaskey athletes have built a tradition of excellence that extends far beyond the playing field. The Hall of Fame honors that legacy by recognizing individuals whose impact continues to inspire future generations.
Fredo Pagan, Class of 1981
Fredo Pagan became a McCaskey wrestling legend when he earned a spot as the program’s first PIAA State finalist in 26 years. He placed second in the 98-pound weight class at the 1981 state tournament, capping off an extraordinary career defined by determination and resilience.
A three-year varsity starter and senior captain, Pagan finished with a career record of 67-7-2, including 29-1 in his final season. After narrowly missing the state championships as a junior, he returned the following year to win the District title by defeating the same opponent who had eliminated him the year before.
Pagan was a three-time Manheim Lions Holiday Tournament champion, earning Outstanding Wrestler honors in 1980, and was a three-time Sectional champion and three-time L-L League All-Star. His achievements set a new standard for McCaskey wrestling.
“Fredo’s dedication and competitive spirit shaped the reputation of McCaskey wrestling,” said Athletic Director Teasia Peña. “He showed that with discipline and focus, anything is possible.”
Kanisa “Nisa” Wilson, Class of 1996
Kanisa Wilson is one of the most accomplished multi-sport athletes in McCaskey history. She competed in basketball, softball, field hockey, and track and field, earning recognition in every sport she played.
In softball, Wilson was a two-year starter and a two-time First-Team L-L Section One honoree. In field hockey, she earned two Section One Honorable Mentions. Her leadership and determination stood out most in basketball, where she was a four-year starting point guard and a two-time First-Team All-League player.
Wilson led McCaskey to the 1996 Lancaster-Lebanon League Championship, scoring a career-high 33 points in the title game. She finished her high school career with 1,250 points and was named Female Athlete of the Year.
Following graduation, Wilson attended Shippensburg University on a basketball scholarship and later earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Bowie State University. She has been a dedicated employee of the School District of Lancaster for 22 years, including 14 years as the girls’ basketball coach at John F. Reynolds Middle School.
“Nisa continues to lead with the same passion she showed as a student-athlete,” said Peña. “Her influence reaches far beyond athletics. She has become a mentor for the next generation of Red Tornadoes.”
2000 Boys Basketball Team
The 2000 Boys Basketball Team, coached by Mark Keller, achieved one of the most memorable seasons in McCaskey basketball history. The team finished with a 24-7 overall record, going 13-1 in Section One of the Lancaster-Lebanon League.
After advancing to the league championship game, McCaskey earned redemption by defeating Hempfield to win the District Three Class 4A Championship. The team also advanced to the PIAA State Championships, defeating Lower Merion in the first round before falling to Hatboro-Horsham.
The team’s roster included Jerry Johnson, Bobby Eberhart, Tyson “Happy” McFadden, Perry Patterson, Tyron “Butter” McFadden, Shawn Alston, Robert Rosa, Anthony Gibson, Hermino Ortiz, and Joe Wysock. Steve Powell was the head coach, assisted by Willie McDowell, Mike Mitchell, Earl “Papa” Boots, and team manager Jamie Burkholder.
“Winning a District title requires teamwork, heart, and unity,” said Peña. “This group showed what can happen when athletes trust one another and play for something bigger than themselves.”
The McCaskey Athletics Hall of Fame celebrates athletes, coaches, and community members who have made lasting contributions to the district’s athletic program. Inductees are recognized for their performance, leadership, and positive impact on McCaskey sports.
This year’s ceremony will include remarks from Athletic Director Teasia Peña, tributes from family and friends, and light refreshments following the program. The event is free and open to the public.
“The Hall of Fame reminds us that success is not only about talent,” said Peña. “It is about heart, perseverance, and pride in representing McCaskey.”