25 in ’25 – From California High School to the Lincoln Gridiron: How Local Student-Athlete Clayton Winkler Found His College Home

Kicking off 2025 with 25 reasons to celebrate Lincoln University.

As part of Lincoln University of Missouri’s “25 in ‘25” points of pride, Lincoln celebrates its connections with the local community and the success of Clayton Winkler, a senior math education major from California, Missouri. Read Lincoln's Q&A with Winkler. 

Winkler’s journey to Lincoln began with inspiration from his father and uncle, both of whom played football at California High School, the same school he attended. After graduating, Winkler faced an uncertain path. With a dream to play at the college level, but without an offer, he spent his first fall after high school coaching youth football in California, Missouri. Encouraged by two of California youth football program coaches, Seth Thompson and Mike Turner, Winkler waited for the right opportunity and trusted in his faith.

“A week later, one of those coaches put in a word for me to the Lincoln head coach, and then God did the rest,” Winkler said.

By the spring, he had walked on at Lincoln University and earned a spot as a two-way starter (punter and free safety).

Fast forward to fall 2024, and Winkler was an All-GLVC first-team punter, leading the conference with 42.5 yards per punt on 71 kicks. Only 6 kicks were blocked this season, and 13 of his punts traveled over 50 yards. Over his four years at Lincoln, Winkler amassed nearly 9,000 punting yards, with a career-long punt of 71 yards. Of his 229 career punts, only 10 were ever blocked.

“My favorite part about being a Blue Tiger is the joy I receive every day for getting to play the sport that I love,” Winkler said. “I feel honored to represent Lincoln on the field because they gave me the opportunity to play, so I make the best of it.”

Winkler says that, in addition to his all-conference honor, he is most proud of the positive culture and growth that he and the Blue Tiger football specialist group have cultivated this year.

Among his most memorable moments playing for the LU team includes homecoming of his freshman year when he hit a surprise onside kick off that was by the Blue Tigers and holding the ball for his best friend, Mo Alwaely, when Alwaely made a 52-yard field goal.

“We are proud to welcome local athletes to our team, adding to the mid-Missouri pride for our Blue Tigers, and Clayton is a true team player and asset,” said LU Football Coach Moses Harper. “He exemplifies dedication, resilience and excellence on and off the field.” 

Winkler is set to graduate with a degree in math education from Lincoln University in December 2025. After graduation, he plans to remain at Lincoln to pursue a master’s degree while continuing to play baseball.