2023 Player Spotlight/interview with Caden Estep from Wheelersburg

[LICKING COUNTY FAN]

Caden Estep

Wheelersburg High School

OL/DL

Class of 2026

What are your personal goals for the upcoming season?

My personal goal is trying to get on the field. Last year I learned how hard I need to work to get on the Varsity field. This year I am improving my weaknesses from last year.

Which side of the line do you like to play the best, along with the reason why?

I like playing either side of the line cause I can play each position on both sides of the line. But the most exciting is the Defensive side of the line cause I just like it more plus I feel like I have to think more on offense than I do on defense cause as an offense lineman you have to worry about the stunts of the Dlineman or an Inside linebacker or Outside linebacker blitzing. As a Defense lineman, you have to worry about your job and trying to get the ball. The only thing you really have to think about is the tackle blocking down or the Center blocking back on you and a Guard or Tackle or Y pulling to kick you out.

As a younger player, do you feel any added pressure trying to live up to the high expectations that come with playing for Wheelersburg?

As a Young player, there is somewhat of a pressure playing for Wheelersburg. As a young player you’re coming in the learn your plays, lift to get stronger, and etc. Freshman and Sophomore years are like improving years to get freshman and sophomore IQ up for the game, stronger in the weight room, faster on the field, and getting to know the playbook. It also continues to teach the young players to be disciplined on the field and begin to be coachable.

Which game are you looking forward to the most this season, along with the reason why?

It is really a three-way tie between Ironton, Jackson, and Harvest Prep.
These three games are the most I’m excited about the cause of many reasons.
Ironton-I always love playing them first game of the season. Plus the rivalry between us is the best in the state of Ohio.
Jackson-This game is always a hard-fought game. This is one of my favorite games to watch cause of how much grit both teams have.
Harvest Prep-I just really want to beat this team cause they knocked us out of the playoffs back-to-back years.

Are there any upperclassmen you lean on when you need help with football-related things?

There are many I lean on but the two main people I ask is
Cole Estep-#65-OT/DT Cody Risner-#88-TE/DE
These two are the main two I ask for any help on
Football stuff cause these two are my go-to to ask for anything.

What is your favorite and least favorite part of practice?

My favorite part of practice is when we start the team offense and team defense part of practice. My least favorite part is really no parts of practice.

What has been your most memorable memory when it comes to playing football?

My most memorable memory of football is the friends I make for life. Each day you walk on the field you’re just there with everyone and you're just closer with every teammate on the team.

What other sports do you play, if any?

I play Basketball as well for Wheelersburg. I am a Center and Power forward.

Going into this season, what do you think your biggest strength is, along with the one thing you have to get better at?

My biggest strength is the attitude I have it is always positive and I’m there for each teammate

During the game, how much can the players hear the fans screaming from the stands?

We can hear all the fans screaming down when we have a big run or pass play or a touchdown.

Where do you feel the state finals should be held?

Really I love it at Tom Benson Stadium in Canton but I would also love it to be at Buckeye Stadium in Columbus

If you could change one rule when it comes to high school football, what would it be and why?

The Holding rule I think it should be changed cause if we throw a player down I don’t really think that should be a hold.

What is your game-day routine?

I try to take a quick nap before the game and get something on my stomach before the game

What is your favorite genre of music?

Country

What is one food that you enjoy that most others do not?

Shrimp is one. I know a few people that don’t like shrimp.

What was the last book you read?

The Giver by Lois Lowery