2024 Interview with three time state champion Tate MaCauley from Tioga Central (NY)

Tate MaCauley

Tioga Central 

RG/DL

2025

6’1-240

Let's kick this off with you telling the readers how many state titles your team has won in a row and what it feels like to do so.

We have won three consecutive state titles, and it’s definitely a great feeling to be part of something so special.

With the state titles come big memories. What has been the biggest memory with the state titles?

My biggest memory has to be when we beat Oak Field, Alabama, to go to the dome for the first time.

Who has been the best player that you have faced, along with the team he played for?

There was a lot of hype around our Stillwater game as the O Line coach was an ex-NFL player.

Guard or defensive tackle of the two positions, which one do you feel that you are best at?

Definitely Guard

Guard or defensive tactic—which one is the toughest to prepare for? Explain

I would say guard because you have to read the defense in front of you and make decisions on the fly to pick up linebackers or when to check out of your calls.

Who is the one teammate who is always serious, no matter what is going on at practice or in the game?

I would have to go with Caden Bellis (Buck); he was the Quarterback for 3 years and has a work ethic like no other.

Which teammate is the toughest to face in practice?

Garrett Godfrey always gives me good competition. Me and Garrett are both 4-year varsity players, and we are always competing against each other.

What is it like to play in the dome at Syracuse?

It was an absolute crazy feeling to walk out of that tunnel, and it doesn’t matter how many times you play in there; it gets more special every time.

What are your goals for the 2024 season?

We have a brand new team this year with only four returning starters, but the biggest thing is to put our success behind us and focus on going 1-0 every week. My personal goals are to make the first team all-state for the 3rd time.

Would you share with everyone any awards that you have won or earned?

I am currently a two-time first-team all-state O Lineman, along with three all-region and three all-conferences 

What mark do you believe the 2024 class has left on the football program?

That group of seniors was like none other; they were some of the most athletic and talented kids I’ve ever met. They set the bar high for this year and for future teams.

Would you share with us any of the colleges that you are hearing from?

My top 3 schools right now are the University of Albany, Salisbury University, and Springfield College.

What are your favorite and least favorite types of music?

My favorite kind of music is country, but before a game, I go with rap or rock. I don’t really have a least favorite.

Where is the best local mom-pop place to grab a meal?

My personal favorite is to get some slices from Mario’s pizza.

What is your go-to snack?

I always go for Snyder pretzel pieces.