Caden Cox made history as the first individual with Down Syndrome to play as well as score in a NCAA/NJCCA College football game! He was dubbed “Football Marvel” by ESPN reporter Gene Wojciechowski on College Game Day in honor of his groundbreaking achievement. Caden’s design captures this moment and his passion for advocacy for inclusion.
Caden continues his advocacy efforts today through various activities, including being a keynote speaker at Special Olympics Unified Sports, Down Syndrome Association West Michigan, the Ohio High School Athletic Association, Ohio State University LifeSPORTS, and Down Syndrome Association West Virginia.
But, he does not stop there! Caden started an Inclusion Club named “Falcons Together” at York High School, where he lettered in Football & Track/Field, Percussion in the Marching Band, and the Swim/Dive Team. Caden is a Special Olympics supporter & athlete, earning 8 State of Ohio Gold Medals in swimming & individually raising over $4,000 for the Virginia Special Olympics. He is a 2nd Degree Black Belt in TaeKwonDo as well. Caden shares his message for inclusion through social media where he has 300,000 followers as a dance creator on TiKTok.
Caden finished the season 4 for 4 with 100% accuracy as a Kicker for Hocking College, where his parents Kevin and Mari work today. Caden’s older brother, Zane, was a kicker for Hocking College before Caden. The two are each other’s inspiration and motivation. Caden is now working towards his Associate Degree in Therapeutic Performing Arts & Assistive Animal Studies. Caden has been inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa International College Honor Society and the National Society of Leadership & Success and the International Thespian Society. He was named the “Virginia YOUTH of the Year” 2020 for Virginia Division of Career Development and Transition.
Aside from making history and football, Caden’s interests include golf, bowling, and his dog, Bosa.
Caden continues to kick down barriers, both on the field and in life!
Follow Caden on Instagram @kickinitwithcaden
