Kickers get no love. Repeat it. Kickers get no love.
That is something we have learned over the years. The guys who are in on about 30% of all plays in the game of football and control moments where teams win or lose rarely land scholarships no matter how good they are. Colleges generally lean on preferred walk-ons to become scholarship players making them prove themselves. There are a lot of good kickers around so it seems to be the norm.
Well one of the best in the West has landed an official full ride to Army and we had to know more. Matt Philichi of Bellarmine Prep is the powerful kicker we are talking about and we have covered his kicking prowess here at NWPR.
Have a Look at Matt’s Full Profile Right Here!
After the big offer happened Matt called and we went 1 on 1 to see what was going through the mind of this hard working scholar (3.95 GPA) athlete.
Matt Philichi is one of the top kickers in the US for distance and accuracy. The Bellarmine Prep Lion landed his first offer this past week!
NWPR: Matt how does this first offer feel?
MP: I am grateful and it is defiantly a tremendous honor to have been given my first offer by Army. The program and school has so many rich traditions that I would be blessed to be a part of.
NWPR: You are a Kicker and you know how rare these offers are. Do you think this this going to open the door to other offers?
MP: Working out, kicking, and leading my team are all my primary focuses right now. However, I am excited about some potential offers down the road and possibilities that may arise.
NWPR: Where are you at in the process- how has your kicking game become better or can it even get better?
MP: I refuse to believe that any great athlete can “peak.” Meaning I do not believe that there is a certain point someone will get to with their ability and not be able to get better. This summer I have gained a lot of distance on kickoffs and accuracy on field goals which has allowed me to become one of Chris Sailer’s top 12 kickers. I still, however, strive to be better and increase my skill and strength.
NWPR: Last question- How is the team shaping up this season?
MP: My team, Bellarmine Prep Lions, is looking solid going into Pre-Season training. This off season our coaches have really been emphasizing endurance training because, with the type of players we have this year, speed is going to be our most valuable asset. While we do have some very key players on both sides of the ball including our running back, Jamal Ervin, and our linebacker, Erik Glueck, our coaches have always put a focus on team cohesion, so that is what we will strive to accomplish this year on the field.
NWPR: Matt you did it! You broke through and are getting your college paid for! Thank you for the interview and let’s stay in touch!
MP: Thank you guys! Absolutely.
