The PrepStar featured athlete for this week is Caden VanWinkle. Caden is a dual-position, dual-sport athlete from Mica Mountain High School in Tucson, AZ. He is considered among the top snappers in the state of Arizona and ranked as a 4.5 Star by Rubio Kicking. When he is not snapping for the special teams unit, Caden is getting dirty in the trenches as an offensive linemen. After the 2024 season VanWinkle was selected 2nd Team All Region. He is also an Honor Roll student and a member of the wrestling team. This summer he picked up his first D1 offer from UTEP (University of Texas El Paso). Recently, I caught up with the rising Senior about preparation for the coming season and some memorable moments.
Metrics
Ht: 6’0”, Wt: 225
Academics
GPA 3.3
Link to recruit profile: PrepStar 360 Athlete
Link to video: 2024 Season Highlights
Twitter/X: @CVanWinkle2026
What’s the best piece of advice a coach or mentor has ever given you?
Work as hard as you can because you don’t want to regret it.
What motivates you during early mornings, tough practices, or tough losses?
Wanting to win a state title.
What has been your favorite in-game memory so far?
When I got the fumble recovery against Sabino.
Are you hoping to play at the collegiate level? Any offers yet?
Yes I am and I have been offered by UTEP.
What’s your dream school or team to play for?
Clemson tigers.
How do you prepare mentally and physically for a big game?
Get my mind right.
What’s your pre-game hype song or playlist?
I don’t have one.
What do you think sets you apart from other players at your position?
That I am athletic and can play other positions if needed.
What made you fall in love with your sport?
Competing against others and having a good time with my teammates.
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