January 30, 2025 - In December, the Smithson Valley High School football team made Comal ISD history by winning the 5A UIL Division 1 state football championship. Leading the team to victory was senior quarterback Cade Spradling.
The three-year varsity standout has played the game since first grade, but his love for the sport began even earlier while watching college football with his dad.
“I started in first grade with tackle football at Jumbo Evans Sports Park,” Spradling says. “This was during a year that Smithson Valley football made it pretty far. It inspired me to follow in their footsteps.”
Spradling was named the 2024 Nike 5A-D1 Offensive MVP (Most Valuable Player) at the state championship due to his unique ability to play multiple positions. As both the quarterback and a starting linebacker, he became a powerhouse on the field.
“I am just happy I was able to be a part of the Smithson Valley football program for the past four years,” says Spradling. “The coaching staff here are awesome, and it was an honor to represent the community at the state championship.”
During the 2024 season, Spradling achieved 112 tackles, 11 TFL (tackle for loss), two interceptions (both returned for touchdowns), as well as thrown for 1,388 yards and run for 20 touchdowns. He also played linebacker in the 2025 All-American Bowl on January 11, becoming the seventh All-American player out of Smithson Valley since 2002.
While he is widely known for his talent on the field, Spradling is also quite the talent in the classroom. He maintains a 4.0 GPA and sits in the top 10 percent of his class.
Currently, Spradling is enrolled in AP government, AP macroeconomics, statistics, physics, the family and community service (FACS) CTE course, and is a member of the National Honor Society (NHS). He also spends time volunteering for NHS and FACS.
“In FACS we mentor elementary students with disabilities twice a week and provide a support system for them,” Spradling explains. “I have also volunteered in EA (essential academics) track, EA basketball, the food bank, as well as campus Goodwill drives.”
Spradling plans to finish his senior year competing with the SVHS track team, volunteering, and spending well deserved time with his friends and family.
As graduation approaches, Spradling has received offers to play football at the collegiate level. His offers include the University of Texas at San Antonio, Texas State University, Rice University, United States Military Academy West Point, and the United States Air Force Academy. He intends to major in business and pursue his pilot's license.
Spradling’s success is a testament to his hard work and dedication. The senior has brought pride to the Ranger football program, his campus, the district, and community.
No doubt, his legacy of excellence will be remembered for years to come. In fact, a first-grade student is probably signing up to play football at Jumbo Evans and hoping to follow in his footsteps just like he did so many years ago.
Thank you Cade Spradling for making history on your Path to Success!
Photo Descriptions
- Smithson Valley High School senior Cade Spradling during a varsity football game.
- Smithson Valley High School senior Cade Spradling.