Breaking into College Football: Tips for High School Kickers

For high school kickers with dreams of playing college football, the journey from high school fields to collegiate stadiums can seem both exciting and daunting. While the road to success is paved with dedication and hard work, understanding the recruitment process and effectively showcasing your talent can set you apart from the competition. Here are some key tips to help high school kickers break into college football.

1. Develop a Solid Foundation

Before focusing on recruitment, it’s essential to hone your skills and build a strong foundation:

• Perfect Your Technique: Consistency is key for kickers. Work on developing a repeatable approach, clean ball contact, and a smooth follow-through.

• Expand Your Range: College scouts look for kickers who can hit field goals from 40+ yards with accuracy. Focus on improving your leg strength to increase your range.

• Work on Kickoffs: Many college kickers also handle kickoff duties. Practice achieving both distance and hang time to showcase versatility.

• Mental Toughness: Kicking often comes down to high-pressure moments. Train your mind to stay calm and focused during critical situations.

  
  

2. Create a Highlight Reel

A high-quality highlight reel is one of the most effective tools for getting noticed by college coaches:

• Keep It Concise: Your video should be 3-5 minutes long and showcase your best kicks.

• Show a Variety of Skills: Include long field goals, short field goals, kickoffs, and any game-winning kicks.

• Use Game Footage: While practice kicks are useful, game footage carries more weight because it shows how you perform under pressure.

• Provide Context: Include details like the distance of the kick, weather conditions, and any special circumstances (e.g., game-winning situations).

  
  

3. Attend Camps and Showcases

Kicking camps and showcases are excellent opportunities to gain exposure and receive coaching from experienced professionals:

• Choose the Right Camps: Research camps that are well-regarded by college coaches, such as Kohl’s Kicking Camps or Chris Sailer Kicking.

• Perform Under Pressure: Use these events to demonstrate your skills in a competitive environment.

• Network with Coaches: Camps often attract college recruiters, giving you a chance to make a strong impression.

• Receive Rankings: Many kicking camps provide rankings that can enhance your visibility to college programs.

  
  

4. Build Relationships with Coaches

Recruiting is as much about relationships as it is about skill. Building strong connections with coaches can open doors:

• Reach Out Early: Start contacting coaches during your junior year. Send personalized emails introducing yourself, sharing your highlight reel, and expressing interest in their program.

• Stay Persistent: Follow up with coaches periodically to update them on your progress and achievements.

• Attend College Camps: Many colleges host their own camps, giving you an opportunity to work directly with their coaching staff.

• Show Respect: Always be polite and professional in your communication. A positive attitude can go a long way.

  
  

5. Excel Academically

Strong academics can set you apart from other recruits and make you a more attractive candidate:

• Maintain a High GPA: A solid academic record shows discipline and makes you eligible for more programs.

• Perform Well on Standardized Tests: Many schools consider SAT or ACT scores as part of the recruitment process.

• Take NCAA Requirements Seriously: Familiarize yourself with the NCAA eligibility standards and ensure you meet them.

  
  

6. Leverage Social Media

Social media is a powerful tool for showcasing your skills and connecting with coaches:

• Create a Professional Profile: Use platforms like Twitter and Instagram to share updates, highlight reels, and achievements.

• Follow Coaches and Programs: Engage with college football accounts to stay informed and increase your visibility.

• Be Mindful of Your Content: Avoid posting anything that could be considered unprofessional or inappropriate.

  
  

7. Understand the Recruitment Process

Navigating the recruitment process can be complex. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps:

• Target Schools: Identify programs that align with your skill level, academic interests, and personal preferences.

• Send Your Film: Reach out to coaches with your highlight reel and a brief introduction about why you’re interested in their program.

• Visit Schools: Take advantage of unofficial and official visits to meet coaching staff and tour campuses.

• Be Patient: Recruitment timelines vary. Stay persistent and keep improving while waiting for opportunities.

  
  

8. Prepare for Walk-On Opportunities

Not every kicker starts their college career with a scholarship. Many successful college kickers began as walk-ons:

• Research Programs: Look for schools with open walk-on tryouts or programs that actively recruit preferred walk-ons.

• Stay Determined: Even as a walk-on, you’ll have opportunities to earn a scholarship through hard work and consistent performance.

  
  

9. Seek Guidance from Experts

Working with experienced mentors and coaches can give you a competitive edge:

• Hire a Kicking Coach: A specialist can refine your technique and provide valuable insights into the recruitment process.

• Talk to Former Players: Learn from those who have successfully navigated the journey to college football.

• Consult School Coaches: High school coaches can offer advice, write recommendation letters, and advocate on your behalf.

Breaking into college football as a kicker requires more than just talent; it takes preparation, persistence, and strategy. By developing your skills, showcasing your abilities, and building relationships with coaches, you can position yourself for success at the next level. At M.A.N. Kicking, we specialize in helping high school athletes achieve their goals and stand out in the competitive world of college football recruitment. Remember, every great kicker started with a dream—now it’s your turn to make it a reality.