Chris Sailer Kicking Keeping a Close Eye on Potential Draft Picks this Weekend…

April 25, 2013 By

Here at Chris Sailer Kicking we’ll be watching the NFL draft with great interest this weekend. We have some terrific alumni available for the draft. Here are some names of potential picks to keep an eye on:

 

 

Dustin Hopkins – Florida State, Kicker – Dustin hit on an FSU record 145 straight PATs putting him 6th on the all-time NCAA PAT streak list. He enters the draft as the number one kicking prospect in the country with BleacherReport.com predicting he could be a ten year kicker in the league. Good luck Dustin, we’ll be watching.

Jeff Locke – UCLA, Punter – This left-footer has a booming left and has been ranked in the top 100 players in this draft by several sources including NFL.com. Locke’s 44.58 yard career punting average for the Bruins ranks him second all-time at the school. We have high hopes for Jeff, and look forward to seeing him play on Sundays.

Quinn Sharp – Oklahoma State, Kicker – Quinn is OSU’s first three-time All-American. He has exceptional skills as a punter and kicker, averaging over 46 yards per punt last year and hitting on 85% of his field goals. BleacherReport.com compares him to the Viking’s Chris Kluwe. It’s been a lifelong goal of Quinn to play in the NFL. We’re rooting for you Quinn!

Ryan Allen – Louisiana Tech, Kicker – Ryan is the only kicker ever to win the Ray Guy Award in two consecutive years, 2011 and 2012. He averaged 48 yards on 45 kicks last year, and has an 85 yarder as his personal best. NFL.com’s Gil Brandt says it all with his comment “Allen has a very, VERY strong leg.” That he does. Best wishes this weekend Ryan!

Scott Kovanda – Ball State, Kicker – Scott was a finalist for this year’s Ray Guy Award. In 2012 only six of his punts were even returned, averaging over 40 yards per kick. Scott referred to his NFL combine visit as a job interview and compared the experience to speed dating. Go get ‘em Scott.

Zach Brown – Portland State, Kicker – NFL.com’s Senior Analyst Gil Brandt comments that “The ball just seems to jump off of his leg”. Zach’s real last name is Ramirez, but he used Brown at Portland State, where he hit on 17 of 18 FGs in 2012. At the school’s Pro Day he hit 6 out of 6 on his FG attempts hitting on 2 from 55 yards. Best of luck Zach, we look forward to seeing your winning smile in the NFL!

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Dustin Hopkins, K

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Jeff Locke, P

Quinn Sharp, K

Quinn Sharp, K

Ryan Allen, K

Ryan Allen, K

Scott Kovanda, K

Scott Kovanda, K

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Zach Brown, K

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We are pleased to be associated with such an accomplished group, and will enjoy seeing what’s ahead for these fine young men. Congrats to them all!

-CSK

 

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Indoor vs. Outdoor Stadiums, Good or Bad for Kickers/Punters?

April 12, 2013 By

While every Kicker or Punter is expected to learn to handle different situations, the type of stadium can have an impact on the kick. There is proper technique in various weather conditions that needs to be accounted for by a Kicker and Punter in order to execute properly.

Indoor Stadiums

A key advantage of an indoor stadium is the distinct lack of weather conditions. Kickers do not need to worry about wind, rain, snow or other conditions impacting the kick. It also reduces the risk of slipping and sliding since rain is not a factor. Indoor Stadiums are obviously ideal for Kickers and Punters. Although, one thing to keep in mind is the noise that is generated by fans in an indoor stadium can be defining and a major distraction for Kickers and Punters.

Outdoor Stadiums

An outdoor stadium has a disadvantage when it comes to weather. Finding your footing for a Kicker on a field goal or extra point is always an issue in extreme weather conditions. Punters run the risk of dropping snaps and or staying warm throughout the game. These issues must be addressed by Kickers and Punters in the same way that handle their day-to-day training, they must practice in these types of conditions or at least simulate the best they can, to insure they are prepared.

The type of stadium does impact the game slightly, but it is ultimately a minor issue. A Kicker or Punter with experience is more likely to do well in any conditions due to the greater experience of different weather conditions, but it is usually a minor issue for good Kickers and Punters.

 

–CSK

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The Pros and Cons of Early Enrollment for Spring Football

March 15, 2013 By

More and more college football recruits who have satisfied their high school credits are taking the opportunity to graduate early, allowing them to qualify for early enrollment in college. Getting into college for the spring semester means the ability to participate in spring practice and that can be huge.

Graduating in December and getting on the college practice field in the spring allows for the player to learn the system, get to know the coaches and become acclimated to college life quicker. He will have access to the college weight room, trainers and game film.

The downsides tend to be more on the emotional side. A student who leaves his high school in December is perhaps leaving the most memorable days of his high school years unfulfilled.

There is also another down-side. The player is removing an option he has by only verbally committing to a school. Should a player change his mind after enrollment, there will be repercussions. He can always change a verbal commitment before enrollment.

There would appear to be a big advantage in getting a college football career started for the early high school graduate, both academically and in the sport. The choice of course, is that of each individual.

CSK

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Inside the Kickers Mind

March 5, 2013 By

Few would argue that the mental part of the kicking game is far more important than the physical. While preparing yourself physically can be done through diet, exercise, training and practice, that will not provide the mental toughness needed to be the best.

Each individual kicker gains mental toughness from different experiences. The first key for a kicker is perhaps recognizing that the mind can be trained. You can develop and increase the mental muscle necessary to develop a kicker’s mentality.

Some can do it by focusing on how the opposing team’s kicker is performing. This keeps the kicker mentally focused on a one-on-one competition rather than putting the whole weight of his team on his shoulders.

Another way is to focus on success. If a player is kicking in a game situation he certainly has had plenty of success in practice. By getting in a state of mental review, a kicker can remember how it feels to kick successfully, and get his mind focused on that state.

It is all part of the training we do here at Chris Sailer Kicking. We understand the mental aspects of the game and can help a kicker discover the mental toughness within. Being prepared mentally and physically is the focus of Chris Sailer Kicking. Contact us for more details on how we can increase your odds of success.

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Guzman Commits to Hawaii

March 1, 2013 By

Longtime Chris Sailer Kicking Punter Ruben Guzman has made his college choice.  He will officially sign with the University of Hawaii today.  Ruben also held an offer from Wyoming, but felt that Hawaii was the right fit.  Hawaii came in with a late offer and Ruben couldn’t pass it up.

Ruben first came to Chris Sailer Kicking as a High School Punter.  He was average at best and received a 3 Star Ranking.  Determined, he headed a Junior College to reach his goal of one day playing college football.  He came back a new young man and impressed our staff.  He would eventually make “Event Elite” and receive a 4.5 Star Ranking.  Still, he had more to prove.  At 5’10” he wasn’t exactly “wowing” college coaches.  He worked as hard, if not harder, than anyone out there.  He finally reached a 5 Star Ranking and top 10 national standing at the 11th Annual National Kicking Event.  The result…. offers from Wyoming and Hawaii.

Ruben is a tremendous young man who will see immediate success in Hawaii.  Hard work still lies ahead, but the future is bright.  Look for Ruben in Vegas this May as he will serve as a student staff member.

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Chris Sailer Kicking Alumni Shine at NFL Combine!

February 23, 2013 By

Day 1 is complete at the 2013 NFL Combine in Indianapolis. Today showcased the top specialists, lineman and tight ends in the country. Included in the specialist group were 5 Chris Sailer Kicking Alumni;

Dustin Hopkins (FSU)

Jeff Locke (UCLA)

Scott Kovanda (BSU)

Quinn Sharp (OSU)

Ryan Allen (LT)

Dustin Hopkins was the top performer running the forty in 4.74 and had vertical jump of 33.5. Who says Kickers aren’t athletic! NFL Scouts are reporting all 5 CSK alum performed very well and expect a few to get drafted in April’s NFL Draft. Stay tuned to see what NFL Rosters these 5 CSK alum end up on!

Chris Sailer Kicking #Next Level

 

Chris Sailer Kicking K/P’s at the NFL Combine: Dustin Hopkins, Jeff Locke, Scott Kovanda, Quinn Sharp, & Ryan Allen.

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5 CSK Alumni will be Attending this Year’s NFL Combine

February 15, 2013 By

Chris Sailer Kicking is proud to announce 5 of our alumni will be participating in the 2013 NFL Combine on February 23-26th in Indianapolis, IN. To receive an invite to participate in the combine is a tremendous honor for any college player, but especially for Kickers & Punters. Out of all the college football programs in the country in all divisions only a total of 13 Kickers & Punters that have been invited to the 2013 NFL Combine.  This very exclusive group consists of almost half of Chris Sailer Kicking alum.

Here is a little bit about those 5 alumni:

Ryan Allen – CSK Alum

Jeff Locke – CSK Alum

Quinn Sharp – CSK Alum

Dustin Hopkins – CSK Alum

Scott Kovanda – CSK Alum

Kickers and Punters will participate on the first day of the combine in Indianapolis.

Stay Tuned for the upcoming NF Draft in April, to see where these 5 alumni end up!

Chris Sailer Kicking

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Off Season, What Off Season?

February 13, 2013 By

In the world of Chris Sailer Kicking there is no such thing as an “off-season”! The attention to detail, skill level and overall reps in Kicking and Punting requires a year round effort. This type of training has to be consistent in order to achieve maximum results.

Chris Sailer Kicking offers a wide variety of options in regards to off-season training with Events spread throughout the country. CSK also offers 1 on 1 coaching, camps and clinics year round, contact us for more details.

Chris Sailer Kicking has a slew of Events upcoming this spring and they are listed below:

CA Nike Spring Camp
February 24, 2013
Los Angeles, CA
Sherman Oaks Notre Dame HS

TX Nike Spring Camp  
March 3, 2013
Dallas, TX
Cedar Hill HS

IL Nike Spring Camp  
March 17th, 2013
Chicago, IL
Downers Grove South HS

NC Nike Spring Camp  
April 13th, 2013
Charlotte, NC
William Amos Hough HS

GA Nike Spring Camp
April 14th, 2013 22
Atlanta, GA
Roswell HS

Prep Camp 
April 28th, 2013
Los Angeles, CA
Sherman Oaks Notre Dame HS

11th Annual Spring Event
May 4-5, 2013
Las Vegas, NV

Summer Events are posted on the Website.

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Chris Sailer Kicking Punter Nicholas O’Toole commits to West Virginia

February 5, 2013 By

The exposure that Chris Sailer Kicking gives to its players has never been more evident in the recent success story of Fullerton JC Punter Nicholas O’Toole.  A virtual unknown on the recruiting scene after his first year at Fullerton Junior College, O’Toole planned on returning to the school for his sophomore season. Those plans changed after the Chris Sailer Kicking National Event last month in Las Vegas.

After an impressive showing at the Event, O’Toole was named to the “Top 12” coming out of the camp and opened many eyes at the D1 level. The 6’4” 215 pound O’Toole possesses the ideal size and strength to thrive at the next level and into the NFL.

Chris Sailer Kicking introduced O’Toole to the staff at West Virginia University and to say they were impressed is an understatement, in fact they were so impressed they offered O’Toole a full scholarship. O’Toole will sign his letter of intent to play for the Mountaineers on National Signing Day February 6th 2013.

This is true example of the power of exposure and relationships in the world of Kicking and Punting and Chris Sailer Kicking has both. O’Toole no doubt has the skills and talent to warrant a D1 Scholarship, but he needed the added exposure and CSK gave it to him. Chris Sailer Kicking couldn’t be more excited and proud of the future that awaits Nicholas O’Toole at West Virginia.

Look for O’Toole to star for the Mountaineers in the coming years.

O'Toole

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Meet the 2013 “TOP 12”

January 29, 2013 By

Chris Sailer Kicking – 2013 “TOP 12” Lists Announced

The 11th Annual National Kicking Event – Sponsored by Nike in Las Vegas, NV took pace January 19-20, 2013.  Nearly 500 specialists from across the nation and other countries participated in what is regarded by college coaches as the biggest exposure event in the world.  The best of the best from every state and other countries work year round for the opportunity to compete at the highest level in Las Vegas.  Making the “TOP 12” is the ultimate goal.

Before we announce this year’s “TOP 12”, take a look at the history of the “TOP 12” and one standout from each year since the Vegas camp was born in 2003 as the very first national exposure camp of its type.

2003 – Taylor Mehlhaff – Drafted in the 6th Round of the 2008 NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints
2004 – Ryan Succop – Current Kansas City Chiefs Kicker (4 Year Starter)
2005 – Dan Bailey – Current Dallas Cowboys Kicker (2 Year Starter)
2006 – Kai Forbath – Current Washington Redskins Kicker
2007 – Bryan Anger – Current Jacksonville Jaguars Punter (Drafted int the 3rd Round)
2008 – Blair Walsh – Current Minnesota Vikings Kicker (NFL All-Pro as a Rookie)
2009 – Cody Parkey – Current Auburn Kicker.  Regarded as the #1 NFL Prospect coming into 2013 season
2010 – Andre Heidari – Current Kicker at USC.  Freshman All-American
2011 – Ross Martin – Current Duke Kicker.  Freshman All-American
2012 – Michael Geiger – Committed to Michigan State.  #1 Kicker in the Nation
2013 – ? (See Below)

2013 “TOP 12” Underclassmen (In Alphabetical Order)
Logan Cooke (2014 MS)
Corbin Daly (2014 NC)
Mick Ellis (2014 TX)
Rafael Gaglianone (2014 TN)
Cameron Gamble (2014 TX)
Freeman Jones (2014 NC)
Michael Knoll (2014 OH)
Hayden Lekacz (2014 IL)
Aaron Medley (2014 TN)
JK Scott (2014 CO)
Matt Stewart (2014 CA)
Gary Wunderlich (2014 TN)

2013 “TOP 12” Senior / Junior College / Transfer (In Alphabetical Order)
Joey Cejudo (JC CA)
Elliott Fry (2013 TX)
Andrew Gantz (2013 OH)
Diego Gonzales (2013 Mexico)
Ruben Guzman (JC CA)
Adrian Lamothe (2013 Mexico)
Nick Marsh (TR UT)
Manuel Meza (JC CA)
Nicholas O’Toole (JC CA)
Osborn Umeh (JC CA)
Cody Wicker (2013 TX)
Brent Zuzo (2013 MI)

What does the future hold for these talented athletes.  Where will they play in college?  Will they play in the NFL?  Time will tell.

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