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July 6, 2006

Kicking for the future

Nyquist looking forward to opportunity to be a star at Cullman High School and the collegiate level

By Steve Seagle

For rising senior John Nyquist, every kick will be crucial, and every decision made will make an impact on his future.

So far four schools have showed interest in the Bearcats kicker including Auburn, LSU, Memphis and Middle Tennessee State.

"I haven't got any offers yet, but they are talking to me through mail and letters," Nyquist said. "I would like to sign and play college football."

Although Nyquist has schools interested in him, the guarantee of getting signed in unknown.

"I think a lot of schools will look at John but it's a very difficult thing," said Cullman football head coach Mark Britton. "A lot of schools won't grant scholarships to kickers until they earn the starting position. We will just have to see if they are willing, and John is aware of this."

Though Nyquist said he has no preference on where he goes to school, his main emphasis is staying close to home and preferably playing in the SEC.

Last season Nyquist rose as a top prospect in the state of Alabama, making 13-of-17 field goals with a long of 56 yards. He also made 38-of-41 extra points.

With all the outside pressure put on Nyquist to succeed this season, he said he is calmly waiting for the season to begin after working with his coaches.

"It's more fun than anything for me," Nyquist said. "Coach Britton has helped me by not putting a lot of pressure on me. They are looking to score every time they get into opposing territory and not settle for field goals."

Nyquist also mentioned playing baseball for Bryan Bowen has helped his mental game as well.

"Playing for coach Bowen has helped me out the most mentally," Nyquist said. "We worked a lot in practice about coming up in big situations, and if you succeed in doing that there is no punishment and a lot of joy."

The kick that really grabbed scouts attention was a 56-yard field goal that helped propel Cullman to a win over Gadsden High School last season.

"We were in a stalemate against Gadsden, and he hit a 56-yarder," Britton said. "It not only got us three points, but it was a momentum swing for us. He is a tremendous weapon."

Nyquist has attended camps at the University of Alabama and Auburn University which has helped him to prepare for the upcoming season. He didn't get to work with the coaches due to Division I rules.

"I went there in June and coaches are not allowed to talk to rising seniors until July," Nyquist said. "I have picked up a few things at the camps though, and I have gotten better at addressing the ball."

Nyquist said he hopes to major in International Business in college. But no matter when he goes to school he said his objectives are clear.

"It would mean a lot as far as the respect I would receive from my teammates," Nyquist said. "I want them to know the odds of me making a field goal are pretty high and that I can handle the pressure in a big time situation."

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