Louisville Commit Gavin Waddell Earns Spot in Prestigious Shrine Bowl All-Star Game
Gavin Waddell, a standout wide receiver from Rolesville High School in North Carolina and a University of Louisville football commit, has secured a coveted invitation to the 89th Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas. The annual All-Star game, set for December 20, 2025, in Spartanburg, South Carolina, will feature top high school talent from North Carolina facing off against their counterparts from South Carolina.
The 6-foot-1, 175-pound senior has been a key playmaker for the Rolesville Rams (2-3), averaging over 110 yards per game this season. Through the first four games, Waddell has recorded 34 receptions for 453 yards and two touchdowns, boasting an impressive 13.3 yards per catch. His season highlights include a 12-catch, 136-yard performance in a loss to Mallard Creek and a standout four-catch, 160-yard, one-touchdown effort in a September 19 win over Corinth Holders.
Waddell pledged to Louisville on April 3, 2025, shortly after an unofficial visit to observe the Cardinals’ spring practice. He solidified his commitment with an official visit in June. Rated as a three-star prospect by 247Sports with an 86 grade, Waddell ranks as the No. 163 wide receiver in the Class of 2026 and the No. 39 player in North Carolina. Beyond Louisville, he drew offers from programs like Appalachian State, Charlotte, Coastal Carolina, James Madison, Maryland, Miami, and others.
A consistent performer, Waddell has posted back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons at Rolesville. As a sophomore, he hauled in 66 passes for 1,005 yards and nine touchdowns. His junior year was even stronger, earning All-State honors with 67 catches for 1,037 yards and 12 touchdowns, averaging 15.4 yards per catch with three 100-yard games. Despite the Rams’ 14-2 season ending in a Class 4-A state championship loss to Grimsley, Waddell’s impact was undeniable.
His selection to the Shrine Bowl underscores his status as one of North Carolina’s elite prospects, setting the stage for a high-profile showcase before he joins the Louisville Cardinals.