Junior Ryan Smith didn’t earn his nickname “Kicker” for nothing. This fall, Smith, place kicker and punter for the Baker University football team, was named as a 2006 National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics first-team pre-season All-American.
Smith transferred to Baker University last year to kick for the Wildcats. He broke the school record with an average of 41 yards per punt and received an honor as a NAIA first-team All-American last season.
Even after earning many honors, Smith said he still feels nerves going into the beginning of the season.
“It’s added pressure. I’m more of a target now, but I think it’s more of a motivation,” Smith said. “It puts it in black and white, knowing I can be number one. It’s definitely positive motivation, and it helps build my confidence.”
Head coach Mike Grossner said Smith has come into the football program and shown a lot of leadership. “He’s become a leader type, and that’s strange for a kicker to take over that role,” Grossner said. “Ryan’s uniqueness brings a lot of great qualities as a player and person to our football team.”
Although Smith was named number one in the nation, he understands his teammates and coaches helped get him there. “My teammates have always treated me equal. Most kickers don’t get much respect, but our coaches have treated me the same as my teammates,” Smith said. “My coaches have been very supportive in the fact they’ve told me when I’ve done well and got on me when I needed it.”
Going into their season, Smith said he just wants to live up to his pre-season ranking. “I’m a lot older than most players,” Smith said. “I want to be a good role model and represent the football team well.”
After college, Smith said he wants to continue playing football.
“My aspirations are definitely to make it into the N said. “At least make it to a mini camp after college and hopefully stick around through pre-season. I just want to play as long as I can and if I can’t play anymore, I’ll coach.”
The ‘Cats season opener is Sept. 2 at Benedictine College in Atchison.