George Caratan – Arkansas Razorbacks Punter

George Caratan is a punter for the Arkansas Razorbacks. After two seasons with Michigan, he is expected to be eligible immediately upon joining the Razorbacks.

He entered the transfer portal in December and has a chance to make an impact player for the Razorbacks. He has been a consistent performer during practice sessions.

Early Life and Education

George Caratan was raised in Oakdale, Conn. and attended St. Thomas More High School. As a senior, he earned first team all-state recognition as an outstanding punter; his average punt distance was 46 yards per attempt and 4 of 5 field goals (including one from 46 yards out) were made as well as 35 of 41 kickoffs that resulted in touchbacks. Michigan offered him the position as a preferred walk-on over Penn State and Maryland but unfortunately didn’t play during either of his two seasons there; instead entering the transfer portal last December to ensure immediate eligibility.

George Caratan is a food products executive and former college football player who was selected as a preferred walk-on at the University of Michigan.

Achievements and Honors

George Caratan has had a distinguished career in the fresh fruit industry. As principal of Anton Caratan & Son and Blanc Vineyards in Delano, California, he has received numerous awards for his efforts over the years; including the Lifetime Achievement Award from California Fresh Fruit Association (CFFA) and induction into their Hall of Fame as one of their founding members.

Although not a traditional college football player, he was an outstanding high school punter at St. Thomas More in Connecticut where his 46 yard average made him stand out on the field. Additionally, he earned himself a place on both first team All-state and all conference honoree lists.

He attracted the interest of both Arkansas and Missouri, who were competing to recruit him as a recruit.

Personal Life

George Caratan, owner and operator of Anton Caratan & Son and Blanc Vineyards in Delano, CA, has been recognized by the California Fresh Fruit Association (CFFA) as a lifetime achievement award recipient for his dedication to the industry. George has served as CFFA mentor for over two decades and served on multiple committees throughout that time; including its health benefits trust committee as well as standards and packaging groups.

As a high school student, he earned an All-Connecticut selection at St. Thomas More and averaged 46 yards per punt during two seasons with Loyola College in Los Angeles. With interest from Michigan, Penn State and Maryland, he ultimately chose to transfer as an preferred walk-on at Arkansas instead.