Oliver Solimeno '24 Recruiting Profile

I’ve never had a kicking coach until now so this has forced me to be very self-analytical and means that I am always looking for ways to improve. As a perfectionist, I won’t stop practicing until I get better, and I know there's always room for improvement. I taught myself by studying film of the pros, paying close attention to every little aspect of their form. I’d film myself practicing while referencing pro form and focus on one detail to change at a time, and after hours of trial and error, I never leave until I get better. In freshman year, after my coach saw me kicking extra points for fun before practice, he assigned me to kicker, only to move me up to starting varsity the next week for my ability to make about 30 consecutive field goals in the rain. I became the first freshman on varsity in 2020 and the 2^nd highest scoring player in 2021 scoring 38 of 40 attempted extra points over 10 games. Now that I feel more comfortable, I focus more on the feel, and I look to myself on ways to improve. I’ve recently enrolled in coaching lessons that will raise the ceiling of what I’m capable of indefinitely.

My high school football experience stretches way beyond football and into almost every aspect of my life, truly impacting who I am today. This is all because of the amazing coaches on my team, who’s main focus is to make us better men. What I’ve learned from playing football is that commitment, discipline, teamwork, mental toughness, and work ethic are the keys to success in life and will beat talent any day. Never leave with regret and always help your brothers up. As a kicker, I hold immense responsibility, so keeping all of these values close is essential. As a part of no regret, the most important aspect to staying calm is repetition. When I step onto the field, I’m not nervous because after performing countless reps, my routine becomes clockwork and I’ve trained myself to block all of my surroundings. There’s simply no space in my mind to focus on anything but the kick. I’m looking for a college with a great community environment, that supports my academic and athletic desires. Choose me if you’re looking for someone highly committed to team success. I believe I have the drive, accuracy and character required to be a kicker at the next level.