Chris Sailer Kicking Alum Justin Tucker Headed to Super Bowl XLVII

January 22, 2013 By

Baltimore Ravens Rookie Kicker Justin Tucker is headed to New Orleans for Super Bowl XLVII. Tucker has been an instrumental piece for the Ravens success this year converting on 30 of 33 field goals with a long of 56 yds.

Tucker’s success has not slowed down through the post season as well converting 2 of 2 field goals and 12 of 12 extra points.  Having a trusted leg in the NFL’s most pivotal moments is key and Baltimore has found that in Tucker.

The 2008 Chris Sailer Kicking Alum played is college ball at the University of Texas where during his senior year made 17 of 21 FGAs (81.0%), including a long of 52 yards…Earned second-team All-Big 12 honors by the Associated Press and won  UT’s Frank Denius Most Valuable Special Teams Player Award.

Look for this CSK alum in Super Bowl XLVII most pressure packed moments in New Orleans on 2/3/13.

Justin Tucker Kicker Baltimore Ravens

(106)

Filed Under: Article Archives, College, Graduating, Kicking Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Value of 1 on 1 Coaching

January 16, 2013 By

While practicing with the team is a great way to improve a player’s overall football abilities and helps create a solid base of teamwork, there are certain skills that are hard to master when working in a team situation. Some of the most notable examples of this are kicking and punting. In a normal practice situation, the Kicker does not get the opportunity to utilize these skills as often as is necessary to develop them to their fullest. Additionally, many great football coaches do not have the knowledge necessary to bring out the best in a Kicker or Punter. Because of this, finding 1 on 1 coaching for kicking and punting is essential—to help a player reach his potential.

A professional kicking instructor and kicking camps prove to be the best way to teach this important skill. The best in the business is Chris Sailer Kicking. In addition to providing the coaching necessary to develop the player and bring out the best, Chris Sailer Kicking is THE SOURCE for college recruiting and exposure as well—offering a wellounded package of benefits to up and coming Kickers and Punters of all skill levels.

Stay tuned for updates from our National Events this week in Las Vegas:

 

global_vegas_r1.jpg

 

(93)

Filed Under: Article Archives, Coaching, College, High School, Kicking, Promotion, Punting, Recruiting, Training Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Semper Fi All American Bowl Kickers and Punters chosen by Chris Sailer Kicking

January 4, 2013 By

Look for the 4 Kickers and Punters chosen by Chris Sailer Kicking in tonight’s Semper Fi All American Bowl. The game is nationally televised on the NFL Network and kickoff is tonight at 6pm PST at the Home Depot Center in Carson, CA.

The 4 nationally ranked kickers and punters include:

Punters – Jimmy Hutchinson (Auburn Commit) Andrew Antognoli (Harvard Commit)

Kickers – Michael Geiger (Michigan State Commit)  and Matt Anderson (CAL Commit)

Click Here for more information on tonight’s game. Congratulations to these 4 fine young men!

Andrew Antognoli (Harvard Commit)

Jimmy Hutchinson (Auburn Commit)

Matt Anderson (CAL Commit)

Michael Geiger (Michigan State Commit)

 

(110)

Filed Under: Article Archives, Coaching, College, Graduating, High School, Kicking, Punting, Recruiting Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Redskins Kicker Kai Forbath Sets NFL Record!

December 27, 2012 By

Chris Sailer Kicking Alum Kai Forbath continues his fantastic 2012 campaign by setting an NFL record for consecutive field goals to begin a career with 17 straight. The record was previously held by Garret Hartley of the New Orleans Saints. Forbath, kicked field goals of 45 and 42 in last Sundays win against the Philadelphia Eagles.

Forbath joined the Redskins after an ineffective Billy Cundiff was released. Forbath won the job on an off day tryout where he beat out veteran kickers Olindo Mare and Josh Brown.

The Chris Sailer Alum is continuing an already outstanding kicking career in which he has already won the Lou Groza Award for the nations top kicker while at UCLA.

Look for Forbath this Sunday as he and the Redskins battle for the division crown versus their longtime rivals the Dallas Cowboys and another former CSK alum Dan Bailey!

Kai Forbath, Sav Rocca

(183)

Filed Under: Article Archives, Coaching, College, Graduating, Kicking Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Michael Geiger commits to Michigan State!

December 9, 2012 By

Number 1 ranked Chris Sailer Kicking standout Michael Geiger has committed to Michigan State University. This news comes as a bit of a shock, not cause of Geiger’s talent (he has a ton), but the fact that he was previously committed to Boston College.

The 5’9″ Geiger will have an opportunity to compete for the starting kicker role in 2013, since Michigan State’s current kicker Dan Conroy is a Senior.

Look for Geiger to make an early impact in 2013 for the Spartans!

http://youtu.be/flcMMX5y2o0

(146)

Filed Under: Article Archives, College, Kicking, Recruiting Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , ,

College Camps – Part 2

June 4, 2012 By

College Camps – Part 2

It is that time of year again.  College Camps begin this weekend.  I wrote a blog on what to expect last year at College Camps.  Before reading this, make sure to go back and read my blog on COLLEGE CAMPS.

This blog will focus on exactly what to do before, during, and after a college camp.

Before
1. Be realistic when it comes to which camps to attend.  If you want to attend these camps simply to enjoy being on a college campus, that is fine, but there is no reason to read this blog any further.  Make no mistake about it, these camps are tryouts for that school.  If you are not a prospect at that level, you will NOT be looked at.  Advice: If you have been ranked a 4.5 Star Chris Sailer Kicking player or higher, the D1A camps are for you.  If you have been ranked a 3.5 Star Chris Sailer Kicking player or higher, the D1AA – D3 camps are for you.

2. Contact the Special Teams Coach AND Recruiting Coordinator about 2-3 weeks before attending.  Do so via email and phone call.  The odds of them answering your phone call are slim, but call and leave a message anyway.  The intent of the call and email is to inform them that you will be attending their camp and expressing your interest in the program.  The more they hear your name and intentions, the better.  Feel free to include in your email: general info, GPA, Test Scores, References (Chris Sailer – 818-209-8921) & YouTube Highlight Video Link.

3. Set up an unofficial visit a week, two days or even a day prior to camp.  Make a trip of it.  You can do so by calling the football office.  You will get to see the campus, meet with academic counselors, see football facilities, and possibly even meet with a football coach.  This is HUGE.  Not only will you see if the school is a fit for you, but you are showing your strong interest, and making your name known to the program.

During
1. Find a good time to say hello to the Special Team Coach and / or any coach that you met on your unofficial visit.  Simply introduce or reintroduce yourself and tell them how excited you are to be there and show them what you can do.  Make sure to find the right time.  There is a right time.  This should be you and you alone, not your parents or coach.

2. Be ready to kick / punt many balls.  There will be a lot of kids at these camps.  It is not easy to get noticed.  Watch your reps and kick / punt when the time is right.  Quality over Quantity.  If you are someone they are looking at / recruiting, believe me when I say that they will see every kick that you hit.  There are eyes everywhere (even the sky).

3. Great programs will be watching your attitude and character more than your actual performance with a football.  What do you do when you shank a ball?  Who are you hanging out with? How do you warm up? What do you do when you win a competition?  What do you do when you lose a competition?  Which kicks are you choosing to kick / not kick?  How are reacting to coaching?  Are you paying attention at the meetings?  What are you doing at lunch time?  This list goes on and on and on.  If the answer is negative to any one of these questions, the guy next to you got the scholarship.

4. No matter what happens, stay positive.  You will get your chance.  Yes, there may be bigger names than yours coming into camp, but that doesn’t mean that they will be the bigger name leaving the camp.  Whether you think they are looking or not, you will get the chance to chart and compete in competitions.  Simple: STEP UP and you will get noticed.

5. Fine the right time to say goodbye and thank you to the staff, especially the Special Teams Coach, any other University Coach, and the Kicking/Punting Coach.  They are watching and still recruiting. It is easy.  Shake their hand, and say, “Thanks again coach for the opportunity to attend the camp.  My name is …… and I really enjoyed the camp and love the school”.

After
1. Follow up.  Wait a week or two and follow up with an email and phone call.  This is a chance to once again express your interest in the school, ask for an evaluation of your performance, and let them know that you would enjoy staying in touch and coming to a game in the Fall.

2. At the end of summer, call / email again and let them know how your summer went.  Also let them know that you would like to be added to their recruit list for the upcoming season so that you can attend the games.  Let them know that they are on your very short list of schools.

Good Luck!

(386)

Filed Under: Article Archives, College, Kicking, Punting, Recruiting Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Meet the 2012 “TOP 12”

April 6, 2012 By
Chris Sailer Kicking Presents the……
top_12_logo.jpg
In 2003, Chris Sailer Kicking established the biggest kicking, punting, and long snapping camp the world had ever seen, The National Kicking Competition.  The camp brought in the best of the best from across the nation to compete at one location.  The camp established credible recruiting rankings and evaluations for kickers, punters, and long snappers that college coaches across the country would use for years to come.  The camp, now known as the National Kicking Event, takes place in Las Vegas each year in January.  
Every athlete comes with one major goal in common, making the prestigious “TOP 12”.  This is THE exposure list to be on for national exposure.  The twelve best underclassmen in the nation are identified for the Kicking/Punting positions.  The best of the best are then invited to the exclusive, invite only, “TOP 12” camp that following summer.  College coaches take notice, and scholarships are awarded. 
To get an idea for what the “TOP 12” is all about, take a look at some of the very best over the years:  David Buehler (USC & Dallas Cowboys), Ryan Succop (South Carolina & Kansas City Chiefs), Thomas Weber (Arizona State & Lou Groza Award Winner), Kai Forbath (UCLA & Lou Groza Award Winner), Dan Bailey (Oklahoma State, Lou Groza Award Winner & Dallas Cowboys), & Randy Bullock (Texas A&M & Lou Groza Awards Winner).  Just to name a few!
  
Meet the “TOP 12” Class of 2012

Kickers/Punters

top_12_k.jpg
CONNOR SHENNAN
img_0766.jpg 
High School: Canton
State: MI
Graduating Class: 2013
Position: Kicker
Current National CSK Ranking: #12
Height: 6-2
Weight: 195
GPA: 3.4
Top 5 Colleges Choices: 1. Michigan State 2. Montana 3. Colorado State 4. Mississippi State 5. Missouri
Hobbies: 1. Music 2. Reading 3. Travel
Connor Says: “I am the best kicker in the nation because I am a fierce competitor.  I am a clutch player in high pressure situations.  I work hard on and off the field and stay in shape year round.  I have a big leg and take pride in my consistency. 
Chris Sailer Says: “Connor is a big time talent.  He has a strong leg and shows tremendous potential.  Connor has all the tools to prove that he is a scholarship player. Look for him to have a strong spring and summer!”

MICHAEL GEIGER
img_0667.jpg
High School: Ottawa Hills
State: OH
Graduating Class: 2013
Position: Kicker
Current National CSK Ranking: #2
Height: 5-9
Weight: 175
GPA: 3.9
Top 5 Colleges Choices: 1. Oregon 2. Michigan 3. CAL 4. Virginia 5. Michigan State
Hobbies: 1. Sports 2. Piano 3. Faith
Michael Says: “I am the best kicker in the nation because I strive for perfection. Every time I kick a ball I intend for it to go right down the middle. I think I have worked hard to reach the level that I am at, but my work ethic will help me to keep improving. I am also a fierce competitor, and seek out any opportunity to compete. I hold myself to a very high standard, in hopes of achieving my goals.
Chris Sailer Says: “Michael is simply an outstanding kicker.  He is smooth, accurate, and extremely consistent off the ground. His field goals are by far #1 in the nation at this point. Kickoffs are also solid and he is proving to be a capable punter.  A great competitor that kicks well under pressure.  Michael is a great college prospect that should be one of the very first to pick up scholarship offers in the Class of 2013.  OFFER NOW!!!”

JIMMY HUTCHINSON
img_0700.jpg
High School: Harrison
State: GA
Graduating Class: 2013
Position: Punter
Current National CSK Ranking: #1
Height: 6-3
Weight: 175
GPA: 3.7
Top 5 Colleges Choices: 1. Auburn 2. UCLA 3. Ohio State 4. Miami 5. South Carolina
Hobbies: 1. Sports 2. The Lake 3. Friends & Family
Jimmy Says: “I am the best punter in the nation because of my excellent work ethic and drive to be the best. Every time I practice, my goal is to get better in some way each time. I will always give my 100%.
Chris Sailer Says: “Jimmy is an outstanding punter.  He has a great frame ahd shows great explosion. Jimmy has shown great improvement each time we have seen him. A great athlete that has all the tools.  He excels under pressure.  A fine young man with a great attitude and work ethic.  Great D1 prospect. Huge pick up for Auburn!


TY CUMMINGS
img_0682.jpg
High School: Southlake Carroll
State: TX
Graduating Class: 2013
Position: Kicker
Current National CSK Ranking: #1
Height:  5-11
Weight: 180
GPA: 3.3
Top 5 Colleges Choices: 1. Oregon 2. LSU 3. Houston 4. Auburn 5. Miami
Hobbies: 1. Football 2. Family 3. Friends
Ty Says: “I am the best kicker in the nation because I have the strongest leg and my accuracy is much improved. I have worked extremely hard on the field and in video to improve as much as possible over the years and now I am always ready to make a kick when it matters.”
Chris Sailer Says: “Ty is simply an outstanding kicker.  He has perhaps the strongest leg in the nation and hits a very consistent ball with great height off the ground.  Kickoffs are at the top of his class and are D1A ready! Fine young man with a great attitude and excellent work ethic.  Has made it very clear he will stay at the top of this recruiting class.  A definite scholarship pick.  OFFER NOW!!!”

MATT WOGAN
img_0770.jpg
High School: Porter Ridge
State: NC
Graduating Class: 2013
Position: Kicker
Current National CSK Ranking: #3
Height: 6-2
Weight: 195
GPA: 4.08
Top 5 Colleges Choices: 1. Oregon 2. Auburn 3. South Carolina 4. Florida 5. Houston
Hobbies: 1. Hunting 2. Fishing 3. Working Out
Matt Says: “I am the best kicker in the nation because of my my work ethic, integrity, and leadership. My work ethic is fast and hard which helps me finish. I have great coaches that provide me with the tools and drills I need to be the best. Also my integrity, I do the right thing when nobody is watching, on and off the field. Integrity brings out character and it shows who you really are. My leadership is not only on the field, it is in the classroom, in the community, and on the field. I try to make people better by leading by example and by my actions.”
Chris Sailer Says: “Matt is a phenomenal kicking prospect.  He has the strongest leg in the nation and shows huge talent. Kickoffs are top 2 in the nation in the Class of 2013.  A great athlete with an even better attitude.  The sky is the limit.  A D1 Scholarship Pick without a doubt.  OFFER NOW!!!”

JONATHAN KING
img_2754.jpg
High School: Farragut
State: TN
Graduating Class: 2013
Position: Kicker / Punter
Current National CSK Kicking Ranking: #4
Currnet National CSK Punting Ranking: #2
Height: 6-1
Weight: 160
GPA: 3.0
Top 3 Colleges Choices: 1. South Carolina 2. Auburn 3. Tennessee
Jonathan Says: “I am the best kicker/punter in the nation because of my strong work ethic, my passion for football, willingness to be coached, team player, my positive attitude, and my desire to be the the best I can be while glorifying God.”
Chris Sailer Says: “Jonathan is an oustanding kicker/punter.  He has great technique and kicks with excellent consistency.  Very smooth.  Field goals are near the very top of his class.  Kickoffs are also top notch.  And might be the top punter in this class. Has a great attitde and kicks well under pressure. The #1 combo prospect in the nation as of 4-6-12.  Big Time Prospect. OFFER NOW!!!”

JORDAN DASCALO
img_0650.jpg
High School: Taft
State: CA
Graduating Class: 2013
Position: Kicker / Punter
Current National CSK Kicking Ranking: #11
Current National CSK Punting Ranking: #11
Height: 6-1
Weight: 175
GPA: 3.1
Top 5 Colleges Choices: 1. Ohio State 2. LSU 3. Oregon 4. Flroida 5. Arizona State
Hobbies: 1. Kicking 2. Punting 3. Weight Lifting
Jordan Says: “I am the best kicker / punter in the nation because is my work ethic and strong mental side to the kicking and punting game.  I believe no one can compete with me on either skill.”
Chris Sailer Says:  “Jordan is a very talented kicker. He has a strong leg and shows great potential. Has shown outstanding improvement each time we have seen him.  One of the strongest legs in his class.  Also shows punting potential.  A fine young man with great work ethic.  Is going to be a top combo prosepct in this class!  Fine prospect.”

BRET MILLER
img_0664.jpg
High School: San Clemente
State: CA
Graduating Class: 2013
Position: Kicker
Current National CSK Ranking: #10
Height: 6-1
Weight: 190
GPA: 3.5
Top 5 Colleges Choices: 1. South Carolina 2. Southern California 3. Oregon 4. SMU 5. TCU
Hobbies: 1. Kicking 2. Sports 3. Friends
Bret Says: “I am the best kicker in the nation because of my persistence and strive to become greater than I already am, my confidence that I can make any kick under any pressure, and the fact that I push myself everyday to do something to maintain my position as the best. I believe I have been blessed with a special talent that will lead me to great accomplishments.”
Chris Sailer Says: “Bret is an oustanding kicker.  A good looking athlete with a strong leg.  Makes kicks with great height and consistency off the ground.  Has shown great improvement each time we’ve seen him.  Bret proves time and time again he is one of the very best in the nation.  A fine young man with a great attitude and work ethic.  Huge future here!  Outstanding D1 Prospect.”

ALEX BIBY
img_0603.jpg
High School: Jupiter
State: FL
Graduating Class: 2013
Position: Kicker
Current National CSK Ranking: #6
Height: 5-10
Weight: 175
GPA: 3.9
Top 5 Colleges Choices: 1. Clemson 2. Auburn 3. Florida 4. Texas 5. Florida State
Hobbies: 1. Kicking 2. Lifting 3. Surfing
Alex Says: “I am the best kicker in the nation because of my superior work ethic, leg strength, and dependability.  I’m the kind of guy to go out with my snapper and holder after practice or on weekends to get reps in. Whatever it takes to make the coach feel secure that I’ll put it through on a crucial long field goal or kickoff through the back of the endzone, I’m going to do it. It’s one thing to kickoff 75 yards or hit a 60 yarder in practice, but I’ll be the guy to have the focus and preparation to do it on Saturdays.”
Chris Sailer Says: “Alex is an extremely talented kicker.  He shows excellent leg strength, technique, and consistency.  Has all the tools to be top kicker in his class. Kicks very well under pressure.  A fine young man with a great attitude and work ethic.  Alex has a bright future.  Should have a great offseason impressing college coaches nationwide.  Outstanding prospect.”

JAY MATTOX
img_0641.jpg
High School: Las Vegas
State: NV
Graduating Class: 2013
Position: Kicker
Current National CSK Ranking: #5
Height: 6-0
Weight: 175
GPA: 3.57
Top 5 Colleges Choices: 1. Oregon 2. Arkansas 3. LSU 4. Georgia 5. Any D1
Hobbies: 1. Kicking 2. Weight Lifting 3. Friends
Jay Says: “I am the best kicker in the nation because of hard work and dedication. I have a huge love for kicking and I try to craft myself so I can be the best I can be, hopefully one of the best in the country. I work hard in the weight room and on the practice field so when it comes to game time, I’m ready to perform. I also believe I have a good mental game. I stay calm when I’m sent out to attempt a field goal, especially if it is to win or tie the game. I take direction well and always know there’s room for improvement. I look forward to playing at the college level.”
Chris Sailer Says: “Jay is an oustanding kicker.  His field goals are smooth and consistent.  His kickoffs are near the top of his class.  He kicks extremely well under pressure and has a strong mental game.  Has a big time future with continued hard work. Look for Jay to impress D1 coaches this May in Vegas and this summer at college camps.  Great prospect.”

CHRIS CALLAHAN
img_0591.jpg 
High School: Second Baptist
State: TX
Graduating Class: 2013
Position: Kicker / Punter
Current National CSK Kicking Ranking: #8
Current National CSK Punting Ranking: #10
Height: 5-11
Weight: 175
GPA: 3.37
Top 5 Colleges Choices: 1. Ohio State 2. Mississippi 3. Texas A&M 4. Georgia 5. Baylor
Hobbies: 1. Golf 2. Travel 3. Music
Chris Says: “I am the best kicker/punter in the nation because of my drive to work hard on and off the field.  Whether in the classroom, the weight room, during practice or in the offseason, I find myself driven to improve my technique and leg power. My mental strength, focus, confidence and passion for the game gives me an edge. In my efforts to become an elite kicker and punter, I have been coached and trained by many great specialists in the nation. Since my freshman year I have started on the varsity team. During that time, I have matured as a young athlete as well as a young man, learning the characteristics of a wellounded football player and leader.”
Chris Sailer Says: “Chris a an outstanding kicking prospect.  He has a huge leg and hits a great ball off the ground.  Shows D1 talent at all 3 positions. He is smooth on field goald, big on kickoffs, and a capable punter.  Should have a nice Spring and Summer!  Big time prospect.”

DAVID PETRONI
img_0797.jpg
High School: Buford
State: GA
Graduating Class: 2013
Position: Kicker / Punter
Current National CSK Kicking Ranking: #7
Current National CSK Punting Ranking: #8
Height: 6-0
Weight: 170
GPA: 3.8
Top 5 Colleges Choices: 1. Auburn 2. Ohio State 3. Georgia Tech 4. Mississippi State 5. Boston College
Hobbies: 1. Tennis 2. Guitar 3. Friends
David Says: “I am the best kicker / punter in the nation because I do my best, every day, to outwork my competition. My goal every time I kick is to be better than I was the day before.”
Chris Sailer Says: “David is an oustanding kicking prospect.  A great looking athlete with a strong leg and nice technique and consistency. He gets great height on his ball.  Does extremely well under pressure. Also a strong punter.  A fine young man with a great attitude and work ethic.  Is going to be a fine college kicker/punter! Great prospect.”

All information current as of 4-6-12

(192)

Filed Under: Article Archives, College, Graduating, Kicking, Punting, Recruiting

Signing Date Has Passed…..What Now?

February 2, 2012 By

Signing Date Has Passed…..What Now?

First of all congratulations to the many Chris Sailer Kicking Students that were fortunate to sign scholarships to play college football.  Some committed early on, such as Adam Griffith to Alabama over year ago, and some were awarded scholarship offers late, such as Josh Lambert to West Virginia, literally today!  Getting a college scholarship is a huge accomplishment and I congratulate you all. 

However, like we have always said, when it comes to kickers, punters, and long snappers, it is NEVER too late.  Yes, another wave of recruiting has passed, but another is now set to begin.  Signing date has passed, so you are asking the question, “What Now”?  It is not time to cry, to panic, to quit. It is time to focus knowing that only the top 5-10% or so of specialists have made their college choices.  Over the course of the next several months, college coaches will need to find specialists.  They will begin to panic and if you have been keeping up your contacts, they will come looking for you.  You will find a home.

Yes, most D1A Scholarships have been awarded and signed.  That’s okay.  Some will still be available based on numbers, ineligibility, and injuries.  Many D1AA, D2, and D3 scholarships are now available.  Reach out to schools of all levels that fit your needs both academically and socially.  There is money out there.  You will find a school to play football that will ultimately land you a college degree. 

Here is my advice:

1. Create a huge email list of college coaches.  Send them an email saying this… “Dear Coach, my name is (fill in the blank).  I have a strong interest to play college football for your program.  I would love the opportunity to compete and win a job on your team.  If possible, can I visit the campus in the near future and show you that my desire to play for you in sincere.  Please take a minute to view my highlight video link and brief bio showing my qualifications.  Contact Chris Sailer, my kicking coach, as a reference (818-209-8921).  Looking forward to hearing from you. 

The key is not to ask for a scholarship.  Ask for an opportunity to play. 

2. Make calls.  Say the same thing as above.  If the coach doesn’t answer, state the above on their voice mail. 

3. Make visits.  Get yourself on their campus.  Try to meet coaches in person.  Show them that your interest in sincere. 

4. If there is a school that you have already been accepted to academically, use this to your advantage.  Let the coach know because it makes his life a whole lot easier. 

Recruiting is a process.  It takes time.  But the reward at the end of all the hard work in well worth it.  Believe me when I say that there is a great school out there for you where you can thrive academically, socially, and athletically.  Time to get to work and find the right fit.  Many doors will continue to open and shut.  Do not get frustrated.  Stick to the plan.  There is light at the end of the tunnel if you stay the course. 

Looking forward to the receiving your commitment emails.  I will be the first to congratulate you!

(94)

Filed Under: Article Archives, College, High School, Kicking, Punting, Recruiting

Factors To Consider When Making Your College Choice

December 14, 2011 By

Factors To Consider When Making Your College Choice:

It is getting close to that time of year when our Chris Sailer Kicking Seniors will have to make a college choice.  In the next few months, recruiting will pick up, and if you’ve approached recruiting the correct way, you should have options when it comes to making your college choice.  Don’t panic,  that time is not now, but it is coming.  This blog will help you prepare you for when that time comes.  Education and preparation are key. Not everyone will receive a scholarship to the D1 school of their choice.  Most will have to make a choice based on several factors.  I encourage you to read the factors below and take each into consideration when making your college choice.  It is important to realize that each player (family) will prioritize these factors differently depending on finances, goals, etc.  Take a look at some (not all) of the factors you should consider when making a college choice. After each factor I will give you and explanation and opinion. 

THE BIG 3:

1. Education – Your degree will shape the rest of your life.  Football can help you get into a school that you most likely who not have gotten in to on grades (gap and/or test scores) alone.  Case and point, even with great grades and test scores, I would not have gotten into UCLA.  Without UCLA I am not who I am today.  My football playing days are long gone, but UCLA (degree & alumni-Rubio) continue to shape and develop my life.

2. Location – It is important to pick a school where you will feel comfortable living.  Some prefer to stay close to home.  Others prefer to get away.  If you pick and school and don’t take this factor into consideration, be warned, there is a decent chance you are going to want to transfer.  Go to a school where you will want to stay/live for at least 4-5 years, regardless if football works out or not.  Also remember that your alumni can play a large roll when it comes to a future job.  Also, consider the friends you will meet and maybe even a “girlfriend” or future wife!  You will most likely end of living in the place you choose to go to school. 

3. Financial Obligation – Scholarship, Partial Scholarship, Walk-On Opportunity, Try Out-Opportunity, etc.  What will it cost you per year to go to school there?  Don’t believe the promises a coach might make you.  Nothing is set in stone unless you sign a full ride scholarship to a D1 program.  Can you afford to pay your way at that school for the next 4-5 years until you graduate?  Look very closely at the amount of money that program is investing in you and how much you and your family will be responsible for.  Student Loans take a LONG TIME to pay off.  Also, the more of an investment a program makes in you, the more they want you.  The more they want you, the better chance you will have to see the field. 

*D1A programs are Full-Scholarship or no (zero) athletic aid.
*D1AA – D2 programs can offer partial scholarships and academic aid.  The more they want you, the better package they will put together for you.
*D3 programs offer no athletic aid.  They can offer other aid (academic / financial).  Again, the more they want you, the more money they will get for you. 

OTHER FACTORS TO CONSIDER:

1. Strength Of Football Program – D1 vs. D2, vs D3, vs NAIA, vs JC.  Even the strength of program within the division (SEC vs. PAC-12 vs. Mountain West, etc.)  It is fun to play on TV, it is fun to play in big time Bowl Games, it is fun to play with future NFL players.  There is even a case to be made that by playing for a big time team, you will have more visibility to the NFL.  Something to think about, but make sure to read the next factor very closely. 

2. When Will I Play? – Realistically, when will you step foot on the field?  It is important to get field time to improve your game and gain experience.  Kicking/Punting is Kicking/Punting no matter what level you are playing at.  Think about it, It is just you and a ball.  If you are good, NFL scouts will find you.  But if you never get on the field, no NFL scout will ever find you.  Choose a school where there is a good chance you will see the field.  Not only will you get to actually play college football (not just watch from the sidelines) you will ultimately be happier. This will drastically increase your college experience.  Where did Adam Vinatieri play college football?  Exactly. 

3. Major – If you have a specific major you know you want to earn a degree in, make sure you find a school that offers that major. 

FACTORS TO PUT VERY LOW ON YOUR LIST:

1. Coaching Staff – Believe me when I tell you, there is a good chance the coach that recruits you won’t be your coach by the time you graduate.  Do not pick a school simply because you like the coach…believe me.  Now, if you do NOT like the coach, this may be a reason to NOT pick a school.  If that coach does end up staying there for your entire career, you will be spending A LOT of time with him!

2. They Recruited Me First – Who cares!  Be patient. Work the system. Use one school to get recruited by another.  Compile options, then pick the school that is best for you.  Do NOT worry about hurting someone’s feelings.  This is your future that we are talking about.

3. They Have Cool Uniforms – Again, who cares!  Whether you like blue, red, green, or purple – play in Mustard and Pink if you have to.  It’s about the BIG THREE (Education, Location, Financial Obligation), not the uniforms. 

Finally, NEVER pick a school where going into it, transferring is an option.  “If things don’t work out they way I hope they will, I’ll just transfer”!  Nope.  Transferring is incredibly difficult for many reasons.  Avoid this situation at all costs.  Even if you transfer, chances are you will end up right back in the same situation.  If you have focused on the BIG 3 (Education, Location, Financial Obligation), transferring probably won’t be in your future. 

There are many other factors to look at (and you should look at) when making your college choice.  This should get you started off on the right track.  Once you have laid out which factors are most important to you are your family, rank each school based on who has the most of what you are ultimately looking for.  Remember this is a choice that will effect the rest of your life, not just the next 4-5 years.  Your education, your degree, your alumni will shape who you are and what you will become.  Take your time and make a choice looking at the BIG PICTURE!

(162)

Filed Under: Article Archives, College, Kicking, Punting

College Camps

June 10, 2011 By
College Camps

I’ve never received more calls, emails, texts etc. concerning college camps.  The confusion surrounding these camps is more than apparent.  Here are some answers to the most common questions.

  • College camps are put on by the University and more specifically the football department.  These are NOT Chris Sailer Kicking or any other kicking services camps.  Don’t be confused or fall for any false advertising.  Universities may hire an outside kicking services to come in and coach.  I  have been asked to run over 80 of these camps over the years.  Due to limited time, we can only do a handful.  We currently work for LSU, Alabama, Oregon, and Tennessee. 
  • We cannot and will not rank you on www.ChrisSailerKicking.com based on your performance at a college camp.  This is per NCAA rules.  We do not evaluate at these camps.  Do not mistake a college camp as a Chris Sailer Kicking camp or any other kicking service camp. 
  • These camps are tryouts.  Treat them as such.  There are 3 reasons to attend (try out for the coaches, gain experience, simply enjoy being on a college campus and football field).  
  • Be smart about the camps you choose.  Attend camps that you have a legitimate shot at playing at that level.  Otherwise you will get lost in the crowd.  
  • Contact coaches both before and after camp via phone and email.  Let them know you will be attending and link your highlight video.  Ask them to keep an eye on you.  Also try to set up a campus tour, meetings, etc.  Follow up after the camp to ask you did and where you stand. 
  • Make sure to introduce yourself to the coach you have been contacting once you arrive at camp and have a chance.  He needs to put the name and face together.  Also thank him, say your name, and shake his hand after camp.  
  • Many of these camps are way to long and allow for way to much kicking.  Watch your reps and kick when it counts.  
  • If the instruction is not what you are used to or believe in, nod your head, smile, and continue to go about your business.  
  • You cannot sign up through www.ChrisSailerKicking.com.  You must register through the University.  
  • Why do these camps cost less?  They hire one kicking coach for sometimes over 100 players.  You will not receive the individual attention, instruction, and evaluation as you normally would at a CSK camp.  
  • College camps are a great chance to have a coach see you perform in person which may ultimately decide scholarship decisions. How do they notice you….you have to be the best.  I recommend top D1 seniors to be and the top 10 K/P in the nation juniors to be attend.  
  • Don’t just visit D1 schools during the summer.  Hit all levels.  Be realistic and create opportunities.  
  • If you can’t make the camp due to a scheduling conflict, ask the coach if you can come on a different date.  If he makes an effort, he is interested.  If he doesn’t, you know where you stand. 

Best of luck to all of our Chris Sailer Kicking specialists!

(770)

Filed Under: Article Archives, College, Kicking, Punting