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Kipke Flips to UConn: Familiar Coach Lures Talent
13 Jan
Summary
- Mateo Kipke committed to Connecticut after decommitting from Toledo.
- Coaching changes at Toledo prompted Kipke's decision to seek a new home.
- Kipke is a 3-star defensive lineman and the No. 44 recruit in Michigan.
Mateo Kipke, a highly-touted 3-star defensive lineman from Dexter, announced his commitment to the University of Connecticut on January 13, 2026. This decision follows his decommitment from Toledo on January 3, 2026, a move attributed to recent coaching staff changes. The former Rockets commit had initially signed with Toledo on December 3, 2025, but was released from his agreement.
Kipke's decision to join UConn reunites him with former Toledo coach Jason Candle, who departed for Connecticut on December 6, 2025. As the No. 44 recruit in Michigan for the 2026 class according to 247Sports, Kipke brings significant talent to the Huskies' program. He played a crucial role in leading Dexter High School to its first-ever state championship game in November 2025.
Kipke had garnered interest from several other Division I programs, including San Diego State, Buffalo, and Charlotte, before ultimately choosing Connecticut. He is the second Dexter player to decommit from their initial signing, with offensive lineman Owen Winder having previously decommitted from Iowa State. Winder has yet to announce his future college plans.
