Tag Archive for: YSU

GUINS BATTLE BACK IN NINTH, FALL SHORT TO LOUISVILLE

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LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Despite a hard-fought effort, Youngstown State showcased resilience and determination in their baseball matchup against the University of Louisville on Saturday at Jim Patterson Stadium.

In a game where every play mattered, Youngstown State (0-8) demonstrated their ability to compete at a high level, pushing Louisville (6-4) to their limits throughout the matchup.

Despite falling short on the scoreboard, the Penguins displayed flashes of brilliance, highlighting their potential as a competitive force in collegiate baseball. Facing off against a formidable opponent, the Penguins showcased their tenacity and spirit, refusing to back down even in the face of adversity.

Louisville’s dominance notwithstanding, Youngstown State’s pitchers exhibited commendable effort, with Evan Webster (1-0) delivering a solid performance in his third start of the season. Webster’s career-long six innings and career-best six strikeouts demonstrated the depth of talent within the Youngstown State roster.

At the plate, although Youngstown State faced challenges, they managed to make their mark, with players like Michael Lippe and Brandon Anderson leading the charge. Lippe’s impactful hits and Anderson’s contributions underscored Youngstown State’s offensive capabilities, showcasing their ability to compete against top-tier competition.

Sloan Ulrich endured a challenging outing for YSU, falling to 0-2 for the season despite a resilient effort. In a 95-pitch performance, Ulrich yielded 9 hits over 5 innings, resulting in four earned runs. However, amidst the struggle, Ulrich managed to tally 6 strikeouts while issuing just one walk. Niall Todd entered in relief, pitching two-thirds of an inning but struggled with control, walking 3 batters. Freshman Chris Domke stepped up, pitching 1.1 innings and conceding two runs on two hits, with one strikeout. Gavin Wilm, a Salem product now with YSU, showcased his prowess in a strong, clean inning against Louisville.

On the offensive front, YSU found their rhythm in the top of the ninth, ignited by Trey Pancake’s leadership. Despite being down to their final out, YSU scored all five runs, with Pancake going 2 for 4 and scoring a run. Ian Francis contributed significantly, going 3 for 5 with 2 RBI, while Trey Law added two hits, a run, and an RBI to the scoreboard. Teddy Ruffner also chipped in with a pair of hits and a run scored, demonstrating YSU’s offensive depth and resilience in the face of adversity.

Despite the final score, Youngstown State’s performance was marked by resilience and determination. As they regroup and prepare for future matchups, they will undoubtedly draw upon the lessons learned from this intense showdown, using it as motivation to continue their pursuit of excellence on the baseball diamond.

As the series concludes on Sunday, Youngstown State remains focused on putting forth their best effort, determined to leave a lasting impression and showcase the strength of their program to the collegiate baseball community.

 

YOUNGSTOWN STATE BASEBALL COACH’S CORNER WITH SHANE DAVIS

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LOUISVILLE, ,KY-  In a recent episode of the YSN podcast, host DJ Yokley sat down with Youngstown State University’s baseball assistant coach, Shane Davis, to discuss the unique challenges and experiences of being a pitching coach.

During the insightful conversation, Shane Davis shed light on the stress and mental preparation that goes into coaching pitchers, likening the role to that of a corner man in boxing. He emphasized the importance of managing personalities and ego, particularly in today’s digital age where players are constantly under public scrutiny.

Davis also touched on the impact of fatherhood on his perspective, highlighting how it has influenced his coaching approach and provided him with a sense of perspective and balance.

The discussion wasn’t all about baseball, as Davis shared his thoughts on recruiting and the talent pool at Youngstown State, emphasizing the learning curve for players transitioning from high school to Division I baseball. Additionally, he revealed his favorite dishes to enjoy while traveling for games, including the necessity of having grits in the south.

The episode offered a rare glimpse into the multifaceted world of coaching and the personal growth experienced by individuals within the sport. Listeners were left with a deeper understanding of the dynamics at play in college baseball and the dedication required to succeed at this level.
The YSN podcast continues to provide engaging and insightful content, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the diverse personalities and stories within the world of sports.

Shane Davis, also brought a blend of humor and wisdom to the episode, leaving the audience eagerly anticipating his return to the podcast for future discussions.
Listeners are encouraged to tune in to the YSN podcast for more captivating interviews and in-depth conversations with prominent figures in the sports industry.

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YOUNGSTOWN STATE BASEBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 3) WITH DAN BERTOLINI

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LOUISVILLE, KY-  The YSN podcast recently released the third episode of the “YSU Coach’s Corner” featuring Youngstown State University baseball coach Dan Bertolini. The conversation took place in Louisville, Kentucky, where the team was scheduled to play.

During the podcast, Coach Bertolini discussed the team’s optimistic outlook despite a slow start to the season. He emphasized the importance of scheduling games against top-tier teams like Louisville and Georgia Tech to prepare the players for league competitions. He highlighted the potential they have and the need to make adjustments based on the information gathered from such challenging games.

Bertolini also touched on the team’s leadership, pointing out players who have stepped up on and off the field. The importance of motivation, positive reinforcement, and learning from experiences were key topics of the discussion. Moreover, he elaborated on the impact of technology in baseball, specifically addressing the use of innovative devices for calling plays and managing the running game.

The podcast concluded with a light-hearted discussion about the team’s culinary experiences while on the road, with Coach Bertolini sharing his enthusiasm for local cuisines.

In this insightful and engaging episode, Coach Bertolini provided a behind-the-scenes look at the YSU baseball team, their mindset, and the strategies they employ both on and off the field.

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YOUNGSTOWN STATE BASEBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 2) WITH DAN BERTOLINI

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YOUNGSTOWN, OH-  In a recent episode of YSN’s “Youngstown State University Baseball Coach’s Corner,” Coach Dan Bertolini provided insights into the Youngstown State University (YSU) baseball penguins’ recent road trip to Texas State. Despite coming up short in the three-game series, Coach Bertolini emphasized the valuable experience gained by the team, particularly for the younger and newer players.

Reflecting on the Texas trip, Coach Bertolini highlighted the significance of the opening weekend as a learning experience for the team. He noted the challenges faced by the players, including nerves and adapting to the Division One level, while also acknowledging the positive aspects of the games, such as the performance of some of the younger pitchers and defensive plays.

When discussing the team’s offensive performance, Coach Bertolini acknowledged the need for improvement and emphasized the importance of gaining experience and making adjustments as the season progresses. He pointed out areas for growth, including being more aggressive in scoring positions and refining the team’s offensive approach.

Looking ahead to the upcoming series against the College of Charleston, Coach Bertolini expressed expectations of a challenging matchup against a well-coached and competitive team. He emphasized the team’s focus on utilizing the information gathered from each series to continually improve and prepare for competition in the conference.

Beyond the discussion of baseball, Coach Bertolini also shared insights into his personal routine and reflected on passages from the Bible that hold special meaning for him.

As the YSU baseball penguins gear up for the next series, Coach Bertolini’s reflections provide a glimpse into the team’s mindset and the ongoing commitment to growth and improvement as they navigate the season.

Overall, Coach Bertolini’s insights offer a valuable perspective on the team’s journey, revealing the dedication and determination guiding the YSU baseball penguins as they continue their season.

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YSU BASEBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 1) WITH DAN BERTOLINI

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YOUNGSTOWN, OH-  YSN recently featured Youngstown State University (YSU) baseball coach, Danny Bertolini, discussing the upcoming season and the team’s preparations. Host DJ Yokley spoke with Bertolini about the team’s prospects and some key players to watch out for in the upcoming season.
In the episode, Bertolini emphasized the team’s focus on health and preparation, especially after the challenges faced due to injuries in the previous season. He highlighted the efforts put into strength training and conditioning by the team’s new strength coach, Drew Davies, which has contributed to the team’s improved health and readiness for the upcoming season.

The discussion also covered the team’s preparations, including their outdoor training sessions at Eastwood and Kafaro Field, taking advantage of the milder winter weather this year.

Regarding the team’s upcoming trip to Texas for the season opener against Texas State, Bertolini expressed the importance of these trips for team bonding and providing valuable experiences, particularly for players who have not previously traveled extensively.

Bertolini also offered insights into the recruitment process, emphasizing the importance of academic excellence and playing the game the right way as key factors in identifying potential recruits for the team. He also stressed the team’s relentless and versatile playing style, with an emphasis on speed, strategy, and team bonding.

The episode concluded with lighthearted banter and Bertolini sharing personal insights about his family, including his excitement about welcoming a new addition in July.

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CATCHING THE CURB WITH BOB CAMARDO (EP 4)

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COLUMBIANA, OH- The latest episode of “Catching the Curb” podcast featured Bob Camardo, the legendary co-host of the show, who discussed the ongoing success of the luncheons organized by the Curbstone coaches. These luncheons have been a mainstay of the Valley’s December events, offering both delectable food and exceptional speakers.

The speakers at the luncheons have included luminaries such as Dana Balash, Channel 21 sports director, and professional statistician Tom Bochenik, who enthralled the audience with their insights and stories from the sports world. Bob Camardo also gave a glimpse into the upcoming speakers, including renowned personalities in wrestling, boxing, and baseball, creating an exciting lineup for the coming weeks.

The podcast also delved into the selection process of the speakers, with Bob sharing that the committee carefully chooses individuals with remarkable stories and connections to the local sports community. Additionally, the episode highlighted the importance of memberships, encouraging the public to join the Curbstone coaches and support their charitable endeavors.

Furthermore, Chuck Fizet, a key figure within the organization, provided a sneak peek into the Curbstone coaches’ future plans, unveiling the list of honorees for the upcoming banquet. This highly anticipated event, set for May 5, promises an evening of recognition and inspiration, with guest speaker Gene Steratore, renowned for his involvement in NCAA and NFL officiating.

Additionally, the Curbstone coaches’ commitment to charitable giving was underscored, with Chuck enumerating a list of local charities that have benefited from the organization’s generosity in the past year. The selfless dedication to giving back to the community reflects the organization’s profound love for the Mahoning Valley.

The episode concluded with a heartfelt message from Chuck, emphasizing the Curbstone coaches’ dedication to making the area better through their love of sports and charitable contributions. Overall, the podcast provided an inside look at the impactful work of the Curbstone coaches, highlighting their unwavering commitment to sports, community, and philanthropy.

 

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CURBSTONE COACHES

2023 YSN SOFTBALL ALL-STAR GAME ROSTERS RELEASED

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EAST PALESTINE, OH- It’s once again time for the annual exclamation point and the end of an incredible sports school year, and that can only mean one thing: The YSN Softball All-Star Game.

Some of the area’s brightest stars will shine again at Youngstown State University on Wednesday evening at 7pm to showcase their talents and signature smiles.  Registration begins at 5pm, with the first pitch slated shortly after 7.

Leading the Stars will be the State Champion Coach from Division 1, Austintown Fitch, Steve Ward.  For the Stripes, it will be one of the area’s winningest coaches over the past decade, South Range’s Jeff DeRose.

Both teams are loaded with talent, and the game promises to be another great event, and an opportunity to raise awareness and funds for Fellowship of Christian Athletes – Steel Valley, while promoting the sport of softball.

Throwing out this year’s first pitch will be recent South Range graduate, Jamie Feren.  Feren was a member of the Raider Softball Team all four years, and during a game late in the season her senior campaign suffered a broken leg that ended her season, and essentially her career.  Feren was selected to the All-YSN Team in 2023 for her work at second base.

TEAM WARD
POSITION PLAYER SCHOOL
P/1B Malena Toth Canfield
P/3B Caitlyn Pleska Columbiana
P/INF Haleigh McCalla Springfield
P/3B Brooke Brubaker Crestview
P/3B Morgan Lively Lisbon
P/OF/1B Izzy Holler St John
P/1B/2B Lexi Brown Conneaut
C/3B McKenna Hogan Austintown Fitch
C/OF Mack Stowe Lakeview
C/1B/OF Rylee McDonough LaBrae
C/2B/1B Lauren Piscatelli Beaver Local
CF/C Zoe King Howland
CF/P/SS McKenna Vencill Edgewood
OF Hailey Freedy Canfield
2B/SS/3B Caitlin Mitchell Austintown Fitch
SS/2B Alivia Morrison McDonald
CF/C/3B Mileena Williams Campbell
INF Sophia Paolillo Edgewood
INF Quinn Justham Windham
CF/RF/2B Alivia Hare Mohawk
OF/2B Julia Toth Badger
SS/2B/3B Kennedy Lewis Southern Local
UTILITY Katie Koulianos Ursuline
OF/3B Joshlynn Irey United
3B/1B/P Maddy Ylonen Mineral Ridge
2B/3B/RF/LF Lily Boylen Liberty
C/2B/SS Brenna Figley Crestview
UTILITY Reagan Wynn Sebring
TEAM DEROSE
POSITION PLAYER SCHOOL
P Faith Porter Archbishop Hoban
P Sammi Speakman Jefferson
P/1B Juli Stachowicz South Range
2B/OF/P Sam Susany South Range
P/1B/3B Emily Rosace Girard
SS/OF/P Rachel Strohmeyer Liberty
OF/P Tori Strines Boardman
C/1B Kelly Szolek South Range
C/OF Maddy Wymer Boardman
C/3B/1B Ashlie Harvey Newton Falls
OF/2B/P Hannah Heath Western Reserve
SS/2B/OF Alyssa Massucci Howland
SS/CF/LF Lauren Komorek Hubbard
SS/2B/C Ayla Ray Austintown Fitch
OF/2B/SS Kendyll Hahn Garfield
SS/3B/CF Emma Morris Struthers
SS/2B/3B Cate Davis East Liverpool
SS/2B/3B Chase Toy Salem
SS/2B/OF Mary Brant Poland
OF Paige Grope Jackson Milton
LF/RF Layla Rivera Lowellville
UTILITY Jewel Lilley Waterloo
UTILITY Isabella Rexroad Niles
OF/2B Josie Milliken West Branch
UTILITY Abby Eland Grand Valley
OF Jenna Triveri Canfield
INF Adalena-Hoss-Torino Lakeside
P/1B Katie McDonald Poland
C Sidney Conti Archbishop Hoban

The digital waiver that athletes will have to have to fill out can be found below. NOTE if an athlete is NOT 18 years of age a parent or guardian will need to sign for them.

WAIVER:

https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/w/4ixxdgte5ebeunbwcrulhr/web/

40 YEARS OF STAMBAUGH STADIUM

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The year was 1982. It was the year the 1982 World’s Fair came to the United States. Knoxville, Tennessee played host to the World’s Fair that summer. It was also the year when the Anheuser-Busch company launched Budweiser Light (aka Bud Light) and the year that gave us one of the biggest movie box office blockbusters of all-time in “E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial” Remember the “E.T. Phone Home” scene? I do.

Locally, the Mahoning Valley had the highest unemployment rate of any region in the United States in late 1982 when the Youngstown-Warren area had an unemployment rate of 20.9 percent in August 1982.

On the sports scene locally, we cheered for Youngstown’s own Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini when he became the World Boxing Association (WBA) Lightweight Champion of the World by beating Arturo Frias on May 8, 1982, in Las Vegas, Nevada, we cheered for Boardman’s Edward J. DeBartolo, Jr. when his NFL team that he owned San Francisco 49ers won the first of their 5 Super Bowl championships when they defeated the Cincinnati Bengals in Super Bowl XVI, 26-21, on January 24, 1982, in Pontiac, Michigan, and we cheered for the Cardinal Mooney Cardinals football team coached at the time by the legendary Don Bucci won their third Ohio High School Athletic Association Football Championship by defeating Toledo St. Francis deSales in the OHSAA Division II Football Championship Game, 12-0, played at the legendary Akron Rubber Bowl.

On the campus of Youngstown State University, a new multi-purposed stadium opened it’s gates on September 4, 1982, when YSU played host to their then-main rival, Akron, in front of a sell-out crowd of 15,833 people. It’s known officially as Arnold D. Stambaugh Stadium, to most however as Stambaugh Stadium (aka “The Ice Castle”). Akron spoiled YSU football’s Stambaugh Stadium opener that day, 20-19.

When it opened in 1982, Stambaugh Stadium had one large grandstand on the west side of Stambaugh Stadium, with a seating capacity of approximately 17,000. Stambaugh Stadium was renovated several times since its 1982 opening:

1. In 1997, the stadium was upgraded and expanded with the addition of over 3,000 bleacher seats on the east side of the field, on the site of a practice field. In addition, a new press box was created and 14 additional luxury suites were built (12 suites pre-1997 to 26 suites today), along with a stadium club, which hosts the YSU football’s weekly press conferences. Stambaugh Stadium’s capacity since 1997 is 20,630, the largest facility in the Missouri Valley Football Conference.

2. In 2009, an auxiliary scoreboard was constructed in the south end zone, giving Stambaugh Stadium a scoreboard in each end zone, along with the installation of new reserved chairback seats and 2 new flagpoles next to the scoreboard in the north end zone, one for the Ohio flag and one for the United States flag.

3. In 2015, a state-of-the-art video board installed by LED3 of Canfield was enhanced in the North End Zone.

4. In 2019, the opening of Constantini Multimedia Center.

5. A new film and meeting room is currently under construction. When completed, the facility located on the second-level hallway will feature seating of more than 100 student-athletes, coaches and staff members.

There were great student-athletes that played for YSU football during the 40 seasons that YSU has called Stambaugh Stadium its home: Tim Johnson (1999-2000), Paul McFadden (1980-1983), Marcus Mason (2005-2006), Jeff Wilkins (1990-1993), Kevin Rader, Colt McFadden, Derek Rivers, Avery Moss, Jaleel McLaughlin (2020-present) to name a few of the YSU Football student-athletes that played at The Ice Castle over the past 4 decades.

Then, there we’re the YSU Football great games that we’re playing at Stambaugh, particularly the playoff games at Stambaugh in which YSU has a record of 16-1: remember the great catch by Herb Williams against Villanova in the 1991 NCAA Division I-AA First Round that set up Jeff Wilkins’ game-winning field goal, and the great games against Alcorn State (led by the late Steve McNair), Eastern Kentucky and Montana in 1994.

Since 1982, YSU Football has qualified for the NCAA I-AA/FCS playoffs 13 times, advancing to the championship game 7 times, winning 4 of those I-AA/FCS titles (1991, 1993, 1994, 1997).

Yet, my first memory of being inside Stambaugh Stadium for a sporting event is wasn’t even a YSU Football game, it was in June of 1990 when as a kid I attended the Mahoning Valley Coaches Association High School Football All-Star Game that was played at Stambaugh Stadium. The Blue team won that game over the Gold team 19-13 in double overtime.

Even there were some great High School Football games played at Stambaugh Stadium in the 40 years since The Ice Castle opened its gates:

There were the Holy War matchups between the Cardinal Mooney Cardinals against Ursuline Fighting Irish and the so many home games from Mooney and Ursuline that we’re playing at Stambaugh Stadium in the past 40 years.

And, then the great Ohio High School Athletic Association Football Playoff Games played at Stambaugh Stadium since 1982.

Many in the Mahoning Valley still remember the Ursuline-Steubenville OHSAA Division II football playoff game played in a driving rainstorm on November 9, 1984 – a game where the Big Red of Steubenville shut out Ursuline, 8-0, that launched Steubenville’s road to their first ever OHSAA football championship in Division II 2 weeks later when they defeated Columbus Whitehall Yearling, 12-9, in overtime, and the 3 football playoff meetings between Mooney and Campbell Memorial Red Devils in a 4-year span (1986, 1988, 1989) – Campbell Memorial defeated Mooney in 2 of those meetings (1986, 1989).

It’s been a great joyride of seeing the many great moments at Stambaugh Stadium over the past 40 years, either attending a game, covering a game, or seeing it on TV.

I along with everyone at YSN Live (along with my colleagues Kristin Seidler and Scotty “Scooter” Mincher) join in wishing YSU’s Stambaugh Stadium a happy, healthy, and prosperous 40th Anniversary. Here’s to 40 more great years of more great memories of YSU’s Stambaugh Stadium.

Until the next On The Radar, this is Radar Pavlov reporting for YSN Live.

THE LIFE OF JAWS

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By Kristin Seidler

YOUNGSTOWN, OH- Ron Jaworski was born March 23rd, 1951, one of three children of William and Mildred “Molly” Jaworski in Lackawanna, New York.  Lackawanna is a small city directly south of Buffalo that thrived around the Bethlehem Steel plant which employed thousands of workers.  Bill Jaworski, Sr was one of these workers who wanted better for Ron than employment in a steel mill.  He arranged for Ron to work there one summer so that Ron would understand the value of a college education.

A talented three-sport high school athlete, Ron developed into an outstanding quarterback and received numerous scholarship offers from major universities., despite the fact that he carried 160 lbs on his 6 ft 2-inch frame.  But when the coach at Youngstown State University promised Ron that he would be able to pass thirty times a game, Jaworski responded “Where do I sign?”. In addition, when signing with YSU, he turned down an offer from the St. Louis Cardinals to play baseball.

Jaworski played a major role in turning around the program at YSU, and in his senior year ranked fifth in the nation among college division quarterbacks.

In 1974, he was drafted in the second round by the Los Angeles Rams but played on the taxi squad until 1975, when starting quarterback James Harris was injured.  He played sporadically for the next year and was traded to Philadelphia in 1976.

There he was the starting quarterback and in his second season led the Eagles to its first winning record in twelve years.  Soon Jaworski became one of the NFL’s powerhouse quarterbacks.  “Rifle Ron”s” powerful arm and quick release instilled confidence in his receivers.  In 1980 everything came together for Jaworski and the Eagles.  In recognition of his superb season, Ron was named NFL Player of the Year.  The Eagles won the NFC Championship but lost to the Oakland Raiders in Super Bowl XV.

By 1987, age and injuries had taken their toll on “Jaws”.  Although he was willing to continue with the team in a backup role, the popular 36-year-old quarterback was traded to the Miami Dolphins.  After two seasons with Miami, he signed as a free agent with Kansas City.  In 1989, he retired to pursue his business ventures full-time.

Considered one of the top quarterbacks in NFL history, he ranks thirteenth 

on the NFL all-time yards passing list, ahead of Pro Football Hall of Famers Terry Bradshaw and Joe Namath.

Jaworski has received multiple awards celebrating his football achievements.  He was voted by his teammates as the Ed Black Courage Award recipient in 1985 by the Philadelphia Eagles.

While still playing for the Eagles, in 1986,  Ron was inducted into the YSU Sports Hall of Fame.  In 1991, he was inducted into the National Polish-American Hall of Fame.

In 1992, Jaworski was inducted into the Philadelphia Eagles Honour Roll, and in 1994, he was nominated for admission to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio in his first year of eligibility 

Jaworski has also shown outstanding dedication to his community endeavors and volunteer work for which he has garnered multiple awards as well.  In 1997, he received the Pinnacle Award from the South Jersey Chamber of Commerce for his outstanding volunteer work and long-time service to the South Jersey Chamber as well as the business community.

In 1997 he received the Bert Bell Man of the Year Award from the Eagles Fly For Leukemia, which is given to the person who has contributed significantly to the NFL.

IN 1998, The United Way honored Ron with their Volunteer Leadership Award, which is the highest award given by the United Way.

Over the years, Jaworski has served as a TV spokesman for Goodwill Industries, The US Department of Labor, the US Savings Bond program, United Way, and Harder”s among others.

In addition, Ron does more than fifty motivational speeches yearly for various organizations.

Jaworski is a well-known broadcast personality, having done NFL color commentary as well as Monday Night Football commentary for ESPN for many years.

Currently, Ron is the CEO of Ron Jaworski Golf Management, Inc based out of Blackwood, New Jersey, and manages golf courses and luxury properties in southern New Jersey,  northeast Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.

Jaworski lives with his wife, Liz, in Voorhees Township, New Jersey.  They have three children.

 

AUSSIE RULES FOOTBALL

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By Kristin Seidler

YOUNGSTOWN, OH- Talented YSU punter Paddy Lynch is a former Australian Football player.  Lynch is a native of Emerald, Queensland, Australia, who arrived

at YSU in January, planning to major in Communications.  He is a product of PROKICK AUSTRALIA, an organization that trains talented
Australian Football players in the style of punting in the style of American Football.
 Chances are you may be aware of the many “Aussies” who have made the jump from Australian Football to the United States to punt our football outrageous distances.  This is not just a novelty!  This season, 53 Australians occupy punting positions in 50 of 130 Division 1 Football.
Bowl Subdivision teams.  In fact, an amazing 10 winners of the Ray Guy Award–presented to the best punter in college football, have been Australian.
These punters have played Australian Football, which features 18 players per team and has kicking accuracy as a vital skill set.
This game requires players to kick the ball out of their hands, often on the run.  This is mainly the reason Australia produces so many punters and only a few placekickers.
Additionally, the most talented “Aussie” Football players are tapped to be trained by PROKICK AUSTRALIA, an organization that aims to develop student-athletes into punters for college and for Pro Football in the United States.  PROKICK AUSTRALIA is the brainchild of its
Director, Nathan Chapman, a former Aussie Rules Pro and Green Bay Packers Practice Squad member.  Due to its popularity, Chapman’s program is “invitation only”.  Applicants are put through a grueling year-long commitment of punting, gym workouts, and theory sessions.
They watch as much U.S. college and pro football as they can in order to become familiar with U.S. football nuances. Says, Chapman, “So far our program has placed 185 punters into U.S. Colleges and 95% of these have been on full scholarships.  These scholarships are a fantastic way for Australians to enter the USA while staying in school furthering their education and giving them an experience that may lead to the NFL.”
To further illustrate its success, for example–PROKICK  AUSTRALIA has filled primary punter positions in half of the Big Ten’s 14 programs, including Purdue, Minnesota, Indiana, Rutgers, Ohio State, Illinois, and Iowa.