Get to Know Gavin Chadwell

The Kentucky Wildcats extended an offer to Gavin Chadwell last week. UK was the freshman’s first offer which has proven to be a winning formula for Mark Stoops when recruiting elite, in-state prospects. Chadwell is a 6’5, 235-pound tight end and defensive end for Knox Central High School located in southeastern Kentucky.

Chadwell is an excellent basketball player as well. He scored 17 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in the 13^th Regional Championship game which led to him being named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player. KSR was on-site for the Panther’s run to Rupp Arena which furthered state-wide attention. On the football field, the freshman caught 3 passes for 53-yards during the 2020 season. He also registered 38 tackles, 4 QB sacks, and 5 tackles for loss a year ago.

I had an opportunity to chat with Chadwell. Here are the highlights from our conversation:

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FM – Did you grow up a Kentucky fan?

Chadwell – Yes sir, for sure. Dad loved Kentucky and surrounded me with Kentucky stuff. That’s been my whole childhood.

FM – What was your reaction to receiving an offer from UK?

Chadwell – Kind of shell shocked. Really just taking in what could come as I get older.

FM – You currently play tight end and defensive end. Which position do you prefer?

Chadwell – I really don’t have any preference. I love defensive end. I plan on getting more touches on the offensive side this season from the tight end position.

FM – You received tremendous recognition during the 13^th Region Tournament. Were you aware that you were the talk of the tourney and had gained state-wide attention?

Chadwell – I had no idea. I started gaining a lot of followers on social media, then kind of put two and two together. I realized what was going on after a little bit.

FM – Did you enjoy playing in Rupp Arena?

Chadwell – That was once in a lifetime event. That scenery was just great. I hope we get to go back and do it again next year.

FM – What are your summer plans (Camps, workouts, etc.)?

Chadwell – Plan to go to UK, Louisville, and few more football camps. Going to play a little AAU basketball in July. Playing for Indiana Elite, supposed to go to Vegas, should be fun.

FM – Do you plan on attending a game at Kroger Field this fall?

Chadwell – Yes, that would be fun. Tailgate a little bit, watch the game. Would be fun for sure. We usually go to about one game a year.

FM – What does it mean to you to get a UK offer being from a small hometown (Barbourville)?

Chadwell – I just hope it shows everybody else that you don’t have to go to a big school to get an offer. You can do it if you do it the right way.

FM – What was your family’s reaction after the UK offer?

Chadwell – Dad started freaking out, hugging me and stuff. Mom got home, she was crying and everything. My brother thought it was the coolest thing ever.

FM – Kentucky is a program that is developing NFL talent. Will that have an impact on your college decision?

Chadwell – Yes, I guess it would. It’s all about where your heart’s at and where you want to play.

FM – You’re a two-sport standout. Does that help you while you’re on the basketball court or football field?

Chadwell-With basketball, I’m always working on my footwork. My strength on the football field shows out on the basketball court.

FM – What is your plan on making a college decision?

Chadwell-I got a lot of high school left. Going to have to let it play out a bit.

FM – What would it mean to you and your family to become a Kentucky Wildcat?

Chadwell – It would mean the world to us. Would be great to play on that stage with all those super athletes and coaches. It would be great. Really means that everybody around here would be behind me, being from Kentucky plays a big factor in my decision.

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What Does All This Mean?

Gavin Chadwell is a unique athlete that I found to be incredibly polite and humble. He possesses elite measurables and mobility at an early age and is still growing. EKU also offered the 16-year-old multi-sport star. Many more will follow. I particularly liked his answer when asked about making a college decision. He said, “I got a lot of high school left.” Indeed, he does. With three more years remaining at Knox Central High School, Chadwell is certainly a name to follow on the recruiting trail.