Caden

What do they love most about playing their sport(s)?

Alongside winning, Caden loves the sense of belonging that comes from being part of a team and working together toward a common goal. He values the friendships, support, and shared purpose that make the journey meaningful. Even when the outcome isn’t a win, he sees it as an opportunity to grow, learn what worked and what didn’t, and help those around him become better.

Who inspires them—on or off the field—and why?

Family is Caden’s greatest inspiration, especially his uncle, who was lost to gun violence during Caden’s 10th-grade year. His uncle was a student-athlete and the only family member to earn a sports scholarship. Later, he became a coach and mentor in the same program that shaped his life. Caden carries his uncle’s legacy with him, striving to make him proud every day, even though he can no longer be there physically to see it.

What’s one moment in their athletic journey that makes you proudest?

Watching Caden hold himself accountable as a Christian athlete and maintain his integrity through adversity makes me incredibly proud. Even when he felt his coaches weren’t treating him fairly, he never let it change who he was. He continued to show up, work hard, encourage his teammates, and lead by example. Adversity can defeat a child, but Caden chose to use it as fuel. Watching him grow through that experience has made me the proudest.