Crown Point’s Caydon Smith Shines as Top Receiver Ahead of Championship

UPDATE: Crown Point senior wide receiver Caydon Smith has emerged as a standout player, leading his team in receiving yards and touchdowns ahead of a crucial sectional championship game against Penn High School on October 27, 2023. Smith, once a “little scrawny kid,” is now a key player for the undefeated Bulldogs, who boast a record of 10-0.

Coach Craig Buzea expressed immense pride in Smith’s transformation over the past four years. “When I first got here, he was a little scrawny kid,” Buzea recalled, noting Smith’s impressive growth from a mere 5-foot-7, 110-pound eighth grader to a solid 5-foot-11, 165-pound athlete. Smith now leads the team with 30 catches for 427 yards and six touchdowns, also contributing 99 rushing yards and two touchdowns.

This Friday’s sectional championship game against the seventh-ranked Penn team promises to be a high-stakes showdown. Smith’s leadership and talent have played a vital role in the Bulldogs’ success this season. “He has a chance, if he wants, to play college football somewhere,” Buzea stated, highlighting Smith’s potential.

Despite his on-field achievements, Smith remains humble, attributing much of his success to his teammates. “I can’t take a lot of credit for it,” he said. “A lot of stuff wouldn’t happen without up front — the line, the quarterbacks.” His selflessness is echoed by teammate Logan Urbaniak, who praised Smith’s dedication to others and his remarkable work ethic.

Smith’s journey has not been without challenges. He battled through a double sports hernia last year, which he managed without surgery until after the football season. “It was hurting a lot. It was really painful, but I worked through it,” Smith revealed. Following surgery, he returned to sports in just three months, focusing on long jump during track season and advancing to regionals.

With increasing strength and speed, Smith has become a formidable force on the field. “This is really the first year he’s been injury-free — knock on wood — and the results have shown,” Buzea said, acknowledging the positive impact of Smith’s hard work.

In addition to football, Smith has ventured into entrepreneurship with his clothing brand, Cultural Revamp, and he has shown interest in day trading. However, he plans to focus on his football career until graduation. “I love playing with my friends and all of these coaches,” Smith stated, emphasizing the joy of being part of the team.

As the Bulldogs gear up for their sectional title defense, having previously defeated Penn 35-0 in last year’s final, Smith remains optimistic. “It’s just amazing to be in this position again,” he remarked, reflecting on the team’s journey and camaraderie.

Buzea appreciates Smith’s positivity and leadership style, stating, “He always has a smile on his face. He’s a good leader by example.” As the team prepares for this pivotal game, all eyes will be on Caydon Smith, the athlete who has overcome significant obstacles to become a key player for Crown Point.

This urgent update on Crown Point’s football star highlights not only his athletic achievements but also the resilience and teamwork that define the Bulldogs’ season.