Crown Point’s Caydon Smith Shines as Key Receiver in Championship Run

UPDATE: In a stunning turnaround, senior wide receiver Caydon Smith has transformed from a “little scrawny kid” to the leading receiver for the Crown Point Bulldogs, who are currently undefeated at 10-0. As they head into a crucial sectional championship game against No. 7 Penn this Friday, Smith’s performance is drawing attention and admiration from coaches and teammates alike.

Just four years ago, Bulldogs head coach Craig Buzea questioned whether Smith would ever compete at the high school level. At that time, Smith stood only 5-foot-7 and weighed just 110 pounds. “He had athletic ability, but he was really small,” Buzea recalled. “I don’t think he’ll ever get to where he needs to be. But he’s grown.”

Now, at 5-11 and 165 pounds, Smith leads the Bulldogs with 30 catches for 427 yards and six touchdowns. He’s also rushed for 99 yards and two touchdowns this season, showcasing his versatility on the field. “He has a chance to play college football somewhere,” Buzea stated confidently.

Smith’s journey has been anything but easy. Battling through injuries, including a double sports hernia last year, he still managed to contribute significantly to the team. After opting not to undergo surgery during the season, Smith was finally cleared for sports just three months after undergoing the procedure in January. “It was really painful, but I worked through it,” he said, reflecting on the challenges he faced.

With the sectional championship just days away, Smith is buzzing with excitement. “It’s just amazing to be in this position again,” he expressed. “Some schools don’t even get to do it once. I love playing with my friends and all of these coaches.”

Smith’s teammates recognize his selflessness and dedication. Senior receiver Logan Urbaniak shared, “Caydon always puts others before himself. His desire to reach his goals goes beyond everything, and it’s special to see how he balances that with helping his teammates.”

As the Bulldogs prepare for their showdown against Penn, which they previously defeated 35-0 in the 2024 sectional final, the team is aiming for their third consecutive sectional title. “He’s been banged up,” Buzea commented on Smith’s resilience. “This is really the first year he’s been injury-free — knock on wood — and the results have shown.”

In addition to his football talents, Smith is also venturing into the business world with a clothing brand called Cultural Revamp. However, he remains focused on his football season, stating, “I’m trying to soak in whatever remains.”

The sectional championship game against Penn kicks off at 7 PM on Friday, and anticipation is high for what Smith and the Bulldogs will achieve next. As the community rallies behind the team, Crown Point is ready to witness the remarkable journey of a player who has truly overcome the odds.

Caydon Smith’s story is not just about football; it’s about resilience, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence. This Friday, all eyes will be on Smith and the Bulldogs as they aim to continue their winning streak in the sectional championship.