Interview with Kearney Missouri Class of 2016 LB Cale Garrett

Written by Charlie Beuttel

Kearney High School in Kearney, Missouri had a great season in 2014. The Bulldogs finished 12-2 and made it to the Missouri 4A State Semifinals for the second year in a row. One reason for Kearney’s success in 2014 was their defense.

The Bulldogs defense chewed up their opponents and held them to an average of 11.4 points per game. Kearney’s defense was led by star linebacker Cale Garrett. The 6’2″, 225 pound, workhorse had a monster junior year where he had 157 tackles, three interceptions, and two sacks.

The Class of 2016 recruit has eight division-one offers at this time but looks to catch the eye of more big time schools throughout the season.

Garrett is one of five returning defensive starters from 2014 and has his eyes on making another championship run in 2015.

In an exclusive Recruiting News Guru, I sat down with Cale to talk about the 2014 season, his recruiting process, and his senior year in 2015.

Interview
Cale, first off, congratulations on a great season last year. What are your thoughts on the 2014 season?

“I thought we did very well. We made it to the state semifinals for the second time in a row and we lost to Webb City. We had a good season.”

What are your thoughts on your individual performance?

“I thought I did really well. I was about 30 tackles more then my sophomore year. I was proud of myself and I’m always trying to get better. I look at the little things. I’m proud of what I accomplished but there’s still a lot of work left to do as well.”

What is your most memorable moment from 2014?

“Probably the state quarterfinal game. We beat Helias (Jefferson City, Missouri) in overtime on a game winning field goal.”

Did you receive any individual honors?

“First-team all-Conference, first-team All-District, first-team All-State, Defensive Player of the Year in the class, and Conference Defensive Player of the Year.”

What are your strengths on the football field?

“Run stopping. I’m used to taking on blocks. A lot of times I demand a double-team cause I’m that presence in the middle.”

Did you attend any camps this summer?

“A lot including Missouri, Kansas State, Illinois, Nebraska and a Minnesota camp last week.”

Do you have any interest from any schools?

“Minnesota and Iowa State and I’m hoping to catch the eye of more though.”

Do you have any offers?

“Yes I have eight division-one offers from Bowling Green, Western Illinois, Southeast Missouri State, North Dakota, Navy, South Dakota State, Southern Illinois and Northern Iowa.”

Have you gone on any visits?

“Western Illinois.”

How did that visit go?

“I liked the coaching staff and there is a family feel there.”

What kind of feedback of you received from college coaches that you have spoken to during camps and visits?

“They always ask if I can play in space because I don’t have a lot of opportunities to play in space due to our team’s defense. They also say I’m explosive.”

What are you working on the most this offseason?

“I’m working on getting faster. I’m also working on getting bigger and stronger in the weight room.”

Looking ahead to 2015, what game on Kearney’s schedule are you most looking forward to playing?

“Homecoming game against Winnetonka on September 25. It was a close game last year and we lost. Also the Liberty North game on September 4 because they always play us tough.”

How does Kearney look going into the season?

“I think we have a lot of speed. We are missing out on some size from last year. We have a lot of new guys and they can play well.”

What do you like most about playing football?

“It can take my stress away and I can build bonds that last a lifetime. It’s nice to go out with friends and play the game we all love.”

Who has had the biggest impact on your football career?

“My stepdad, Tildon Burns, he just brought me into it and he pushes me to reach my full potential and to always improve. Also the whole coaching staff at Kearney High School.”

Photo credit: scout.com; Cale Garrett.
Photo credit: kansascity.com; Cale Garrett punishes another ball carrier.