2013 IL Nike Spring Camp Recap

March 20, 2013 By

Chris Sailer Kicking made its third stop on the Nike Spring Camp Tour in Chicago, IL March 17th.  Specialists from over a dozen states were on hand at perhaps the most talented camp yet.  The results in 30 degree temperatures were impressive.  Take a look at who stepped up the most.

Camp Champion:
Mike Knoll (2014 OH) – Mike had an impressive day from start to finish.  The 2-Time Chris Sailer Kicking “TOP 12” Member won two of the four major competitions. He came out on top in the punt competition, field goals competition and head to head finals round competition.  Mike continues to prove he is one of the very best kicking and punting prospects in the nation.  Look for Mike to pick up D1 offers in the near future.

Field Goal Champion:
Hayden Lekacz (2014 IL) – Hayden was once again one of the very best on this day.  The “TOP 12” Member finished near the top in every competition.  He won the field goal competition by nailing a 55-yarder with a stiff cross wind.  His kickoffs were also outstanding.  Hayden is a big time D1 prospect.
Kickoff Champion: 
Rafael Gaglianone (2014 TN) – The recent overall Vegas Event Champion continued to roll in Chicago.  On this day, the “TOP 12” Member won the kickoff competition by hitting a 70 yard, 4.05 kickoff with a stiff cross wind.  He was equally impressive on field goals.  Rafael is one of the purest kickers in the nation.  Look for him to have multiple offer by summers end.

Class of 2013 Standouts:
Luke Nelson (IL) – Luke is a big time punting talent.  He has now proven himself at several Chris Sailer Kicking Events.  Luke punts for excellent hang time and distance.  He has all the tools to develop into a dominating D1 punter.

Thomas Finucane (IL) – The longtime Chris Sailer Kicking punter has shown tremendous improvement over the years.  He had a great all around day proving that he has what it takes to punt at the college level.   The lefty should find a college home in the near future.

Donny Mann (MN) – The transfer kicker proved himself right away.  Donny has a big leg and kicks with excellent consistency.  Has all the tools to compete at any college level.  Look for Donny to find a new college home this upcoming year and provide immediate help.  He has 2 years of eligibility remaining.

Class of 2014 Standouts:
John Duvic (IL) – John is simply a fantastic kicker.  A great athlete that shows all the signs to have a great college career.  He has all the tools to take his game to the next level.  Look for John to challenge for an “Event Elite” spot this May at the upcoming 11th Annual National Kicking Spring Event in Las Vegas.

Michael Farkas (IN) – Michael is a top combo prospect in the nation.  He shows outstanding talent as both a kicker and punter.  He is consistent off the ground and kickoffs are nearing college ready.  His biggest plus may just be his punting potential.  At 6 foot, 4 inches he has the tools to be a great punter at the next level.  Michael is a fine college prospect.

Other 2014 standouts:
Justin Cole and Ryan Graf

Class of 2015 Standout:
Tristan Cunha

Read more at www.scout.com

Chris Sailer Kicking will make its next stop in Charlotte, NC on April 13th and Atlanta, GA on April 14th.  The Spring will wrap up with camp in Los Angeles, CA on April 28th and finally the huge National Spring Event in Las Vegas May 4-5.  For more information visit ChrisSailerKicking.com

Mike Knoll in action!

2-Time “TOP 12” Member Mike Knoll in action!

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Brief History of Chris Sailer & Chris Sailer Kicking

March 15, 2013 By

Chris Sailer

  • Starting kicking career in 1993 as a sophomore on the varsity team at Notre Dame High School in Sherman Oaks, CA.
  • All-American Kicker as a high school senior in 1995.  Made 22 field goals, including 7 of 50+yards.
  • Accepted a Full-Scholarship offer to UCLA (chose UCLA over offers from Stanford, CAL, and Colorado State).
  • Started as a punter for UCLA as a true freshman.
  • All American Kicker & Punter in 1997, Lou Groza Award Finalist.
  • Best season at UCLA: 19 Field Goals (Long 56 – UCLA record),  Over 70% Kickoff Touchback Percentage, Over 44 Yard Punt Average.
  • Only Player in UCLA History to be an All-American in two positions in one year.
  • Played in the Senior Bowl, Invited to the NFL Combine in Indianapolis.
  • Signed as a free agent with the San Francisco 49ers in 1999.
  • Signed with the San Jose Sabercats.
  • Played 5+ seasons in the AFL with San Jose Sabercats, Oklahoma Wrangers & Arizona Ratters.
  • Kicked a 59 yard field goal and still ranks near the top of the AFL record books in nearly every kicking category.
  • Retired to focus on Chris Sailer Kicking full time.
  • Family: Have 4 kids – Nick 11, Matthew 10, Mary 7, Will 5.IMG_0473

Chris Sailer Kicking

  • Established in 1999.
  • Created the very first national camp in 2003 – 1st Annual National Kicking Event in Las Vegas, NV.  This camp was the very first to establish an online ranking system for kicker and punters.
  • 80+ D1 college coaches attended Vegas the last year the NCAA allowed college coaches to attend this event.
  • Chris Rubio came on full time in 2003 establishing the Long Snapping Division now known as Rubio Long Snapping.
  • Sponsored by Nike in 2007 – current.
  • Scholarship numbers and players in college football & the NFL has increased each and every single year.
  • Herbalife 24 Chris Sailer Award & Chris Rubio Award presented to the top high school kicker & long snapper in the nation created in 2011 – current.
  • Partners / Sponsors: Nike, NCSA, Herbalife
  • We now see over 3,000 Specialists per year at lessons and camps.
  • Over 800 Specialists played college football in 2012.
  • Current NFL Kickers / Punters: Nick Folk – New York Jets, Kai Forbath – Washington Redskins, Dan Bailey – Dallas Cowboys, Ryan Succop – Kansas City Chiefs, Blair Walsh – Minnesota Vikings, Justin Tucker – Baltimore Ravens, David Buehler – New York Giants, Randy Bullock – Houston Texans, Danny Hrapmann – Pittsburgh Steelers, Matt Szymanski – Kansas City Chiefs, Carson Wiggs – Seattle Seahawks, Bryan Anger – Jacksonville Jaguars, Brad Nortman – Carolina Panthers.
  • Largest kicking, punting, and long snapping camp in the world. Most respected kicking, punting, and long snapping camp in the by college coaches, players and parents.  CLICK HERE

NFL 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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Freeman Jones Commits to North Carolina

March 11, 2013 By

This past weekend, Chris Sailer Kicking “TOP 12” Member and #2 ranked placekicker in the nation Freeman Jones was offered by and committed to North Carolina.  Freeman became the very first Class of 2014 Specialist in the nation to commit, which comes as no surprise.  Freeman landed in the national spotlight as just a freshman when he attended his first Chris Sailer Kicking camp.  He has since attended 10 plus CSK Camps and has remained inside the top ten nationally ranked kickers.  He was recently named to the Exclusive “TOP 12” in Las Vegas at the 11th Annual National Kicking Event.  Freeman is the next in line of many great Chris Sailer Kicking specialists to sign at North Carolina.

Each year specialists are getting offered earlier and earlier.  Gary Wunderlich and Freeman Jones have once again paved the way for the Class of 2014.  Look for more offers in the near future for players like JK Scott, Mick Ellis, Michael Knoll, and James Sherman.  Who will be next?  Stay tuned. www.ChrisSailerKicking.com

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Walk-On vs. Preferred Walk-On, What’s the Difference?

March 8, 2013 By

In the wide, wide world of College Recruiting, two terms are tossed around quite a bit–the concept of being a walk-on versus being a preferred walk-on. There is an important difference between the two, so we will explore that variance here.

First, the preferred walk-on is most desirable because it means you, as the recruit, have been given the “green light” to both practice with the team and to be on the roster once the season begins. In this scenario, you are absolutely invited to camp, practice and essentially have been guaranteed a roster spot if you choose. One thing to note is, freshmen rarely travel with the team, and the preferred walk-on status is no guarantee that you’ll be awarded a scholarship down the road, but you will have an opportunity to do so.

A Walk-On has a much tougher position because in this case, you will compete to see if you are even good enough to practice with players currently on the roster. Once you’ve proven yourself to the coaches, roster spots and even scholarship opportunities may open up.

To get the type of Professional Kicking and Punting Instruction that will give you a tremendous advantage over other recruits, contact the sought after team at Chris Sailer Kicking.

CSK

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2013 TX Nike Spring Camp Recap

March 5, 2013 By

2013 Chris Sailer Kicking TX Nike Spring Camp Recap

Chris Sailer Kicking made its second stop on the Nike Spring Camp Tour in Dallas, TX this past weekend.  Every time we head to Texas, I expect to see as much, if not more talent than anywhere in the country.  As always, specialists traveled in from all over the nation to compete at the highest level.  Take a look at the champions and overall standouts.

Camp Champion
Hunter Morrow (2014 TX): Hunter put on a dominating performance on this day.  He won two of the four major competitions and continued to take care of business in the Finals Round.  He hit multiple 50 plus yard field goals off the ground under intense pressure.  He also won the kickoff competition by hitting a wind aided 83 yard kickoff.  Hunter is proving time and time again that he is worthy of a D1 College Scholarship Offer.

Field Goal Champion
Austin McGehee (2014 AR): Austin had an impressive all around day.  His field goals, kickoffs and punts were all solid.  He won the field goal competition by hitting a 55 yard field goal off the ground.  Austin is proving he is a top player in his class.

Punt Champion
Manuel Meza (2014 JC CA):  Meza was once again the best punter at the camp. Coming off his punt championship last weekend in Los Angeles, he was easily able to win back to back.  Manuel consistently hits 45 plus yard punts, with 4.5 plus second hang times.  He will be one of the very best Junior College Punters in the nation next year without a doubt.

2014 Standouts
Mick Ellis (TX): Mick is simply an outstanding kicker.  The 2-Time Chris Sailer “TOP 12” Member is always on his game.  He is one of the best pure field goal kickers off the ground.  Mick connected from 60 yards on this day.  Kickoffs were also big as he was able to knock a wind aided kick through the uprights from the 35 yard line.  Mick is without a doubt a scholarship level player.

Cameron Gamble (TX):  Cameron is as talented as any kicker in the nation.  He has a huge leg and hits a big time ball.  Cameron always competes at the highest level.  On this day he was by far the most impressive on kickoffs, hitting a wind aided 85 yard, 3.85 second kick.

Yanni Routsas (TX):  Yanni has all the tools to be one of the very best.  A big, tall, strong athlete that shows great potential both as a kicker and punter.  Look for Yanni to have a big spring and summer impressing college coaches nation wide.

Other 2014 Future Stars:  Eric Piccione, Grant Goebel and Kyle Pfau.

2015 Standouts
Andrew Galitz: Andrew had a coming out party in Dallas.  He was solid on field goals, kickoffs and punts.  He has a bright future with continued hard work.

Connor Crow: Crow had one of the strongest overall legs at the camp.  The young kicker showed outstanding potential on field goals and kickoffs.  I look forward to seeing what the future holds for Connor.

Other 2015 Future Stars:  Adam LaManque, Brooks Ralph, Collin Stack, Jon Coppens, Joshua Williams, Luke Beasley, and Ryan Rodriguez.

Chris Sailer Kicking will next visit Chicago IL, Charlotte NC, Atlanta GA and Los Angeles CA before wrapping Spring up with the 11th Annual National Kicking Spring Event in Las Vegas May 4-5.  For more stats, rankings, and information visit www.ChrisSailerKicking.com

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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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10 Common Questions Regarding the Spring Vegas Event

February 27, 2013 By

1. How do I get invited to the 11th Annual National Kicking Spring Event in Las Vegas? You don’t! It is not an invite only camp. It is a first come, first served Event. You register and you are in. 

2. How old do you have to be to attend the 11th Annual National Kicking Spring Event in Las Vegas? All levels of High School through second year of Junior College. I will allow younger if it is pre-approved through me. Seniors should still be attending since we are still in the thick of recruiting.  CLICK HERE

3. Is the 11th Annual National Kicking Spring Event in Las Vegas only for advanced Kicker / Punters? NO, it is open to all levels of Kickers / Punters. The early you go, the better you will be in the long run. Trust me, I have seen it countless times. Don’t be the guy who waits and then blows it because they were too nervous. Go early and get your butterflies knocked out sooner than later. 

4. Will there be small group sessions this spring? Yes! There will be a 4-5 pm and 5-6 pm session. They are one hour blocks meant to knock off the rust, get some last minute fine-tuning in and get used to the fields, brand new football and myself. 

5. Is there a hotel you recommend for the Kickers / Punters and their parents? Yes, we have a group rate with the JW Marriott. It is about one mile from the fields and is superb.

6. When should we book flights? Plan on arriving on Friday and either leaving after 7 pm on Sunday evening (camp will end at 5 pm) or Monday morning.

7. Is there a rental car company you recommend? Yes, for rental cars, follow these steps: Go to www.enterprise.com, Fill in the information as dates and times needed, In the optional area you will add L540231 and then click continue, The next screen will ask for a PIN which is RUB, Choose your car and enjoy the discount.

8. If I have spring ball on Friday, can I arrive on Saturday morning? Yes, but I MUST be notified as early as possible so I can put you in a later group on Saturday. 

9. Why is the 11th Annual National Kicking Spring Event in Las Vegas important? It is a major one for the final recruitment of seniors (look at #2), beyond important for the underclassmen as their recruiting will just be going into high gear and your only chance to be selected to the “EVENT ELITE” (the “EVENT ELITE” will join The TOP 12 at the Invite Only “TOP 12” and “EVENT ELITE” camp this summer in CA)

10. What do I get for attending the 11th Annual National Kicking Spring Event in Las Vegas? The best on Kicking / Punting instruction in the world, a Chris Sailer Kicking shirt, a profile page with Chris Sailer Kicking, a recruiting and nutritional seminar at the hotel, a chance to make the “EVENT ELITE” and the winner of the camp receives one year of free Chris Sailer Kicking camps (accommodations and transportation not included).

Vegas "Event Elite" Pic

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2013 CA Nike Spring Camp Recap

February 26, 2013 By

Chris Sailer Kicking 2013 CA Nike Spring Camp Recap

Chris Sailer Kicking kicked off what will be its largest Nike Spring Camp Tour ever with the first stop being Los Angeles, CA.  Coming off a huge Vegas Event in January, athletes from all over the United States were anxious to get back on the field.  An amazing amount of talent was on hand and several specialists stepped up big time.  Take a look at the Champions & Standouts.

Camp Champion
Jordan Dascalo (2013 CA): Jordan was perhaps the most impressive all around specialist on the day.  He was near the top of every field goal, kickoff and punt competition.  He hit a 57 yard field goal off the ground, hit a 73 yard, 3.90 kickoff, and a 50 yard, 5.18 punt.  Jordan is a special athlete who currently holds offers from Alabama A&M and Arkansas Pine Bluff.Field Goal Champion
Levi Weiss (2013 OR): Levi was a newcomer to Chris Sailer Kicking, but fit right in.  Levi just started kicking few months ago and stepped up big on this day.  A natural kicker that has a real shot of taking his game to the college level.

Kickoff Champion
Kenny Smart (2014 CA): Kenny was the most impressive junior all day long.  Both his field goals and kickoffs were impressive.  He won the kickoff competition by hitting a 76 yard, 3.95 kickoff.  Coming off an impressive Vegas showing, Kenny is quickly becoming a well known college prospect.

Punting Champion
Manuel Meza (JC CA): Manuel had another huge day.  The recent 11th Annual National Kicking Event Punt Champion was one of the very best all day long.  He is consistent, has a huge leg, and punts very well under pressure.  Look for Manuel to be perhaps the top punter in Junior College football next year.

Best of the Best
2013 – Ruben Guzman (JC CA): The “TOP 12” Punter won 2 of the 4 major punt competitions.  Recently offered by Wyoming, Ruben proved exactly why once again.  No one has punted more consistently than Ruben over the past year.  Look for Ruben to be a top college punter for years to come.

2014 – Tristan Vizcaino (CA):  Tristan is an incredible all around prospect.  His field goals are clean off the ground, kickoffs are close to college ready, and he also shows excellent punting potential.  A great athlete that will have a big spring and summer.

2015 – Ben Kreitenberg (CA): Ben continues to be the top player in his class. He has a big leg, already kicks with consistency off the ground, and does extremely well under pressure.  Although his competition is creeping up on him, Ben still stands alone at the top.

Other Standouts
2013: Bret Miller, Joe Pierik
2014: Casey Sublette, Jackson Koonce, Jake Ambrose, Lucas Alfonso, Tim Strader, Tyler Duncan, Jonathan Weilbacher
2015: Adam Walter, Brandon Hong, Cameron Coe, Cristian Bianchi, Ethan Erickson, Gage Wilson

Chris Sailer Kicking will next travel to Dallas, TX (March 3), Chicago, IL (March 17), Charlotte, NC (April 13), Atlanta, GA (April 14) all culminating with the 11th Annual National Kicking Spring Event in Las Vegas May 4-5 in Las Vegas, NV.

Visit www.ChrisSailerKicking.com for more results, player rankings, and future camp listings.

To view this story on Scout.com – CLICK HERE

CA Spring Campions

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