Tom Schneider is familiar to most Cal fans as our finest placekicker in the Tedford era.
After getting injured in the 2007-2008 season and being denied another year of eligibility, he transferred to Northern Alabama to complete his time as a college kicker.
He blogged about his experiences as a D-II kicker in the South at his blog, "Bama Tom".
He has also been working on other projects—most notably his in-depth look at the inner workings of Cal football titled, "Inside the Huddle".
This photo book takes us inside the locker room and gives Golden Bear fans the opportunity to explore what it’s like to be a place kicker for Cal.
I spoke to Tom to discuss what it’s like to be a kicker and talk a little about the book.
1. Describe what an average kicker’s training regimen is like for those who aren’t familiar with it. Are there any new things do you have to pick up at the college level?
My training regimen consists of lifting, plyometrics, core training, technique training, and mental training. I enjoy cross training with other sports. At the college level I had the opportunity to practice yoga and pilates, which were instrumental in my development as a kicker. Both draw largely on body awareness, strength, and flexibility.
2. How big was the culture shock moving from a Division I big conference school in a place like Cal to a small Division II school in the heart of the Deep South?
The Division II school that I played at [University of North Alabama] is the Rolls Royce of D-II schools. We played in one of the largest D-2 stadiums in the country.
The biggest difference from my experience at Cal and UNA is the size of the staff. At Cal, there is a separate strength coach, academic coordinator, etc. At UNA, many coaches have dual responsibilities doing multiple things.
3. Do you have any favorite moments as a kicker, either at the high school or college level?
I have a lot of great memories as a kicker. One that stands out was my first game playing football my senior year of high school. It was my first time wearing football pads and I don’t think I could have had a more dramatic start. My high school [Las Lomas] was playing Napa in the opener and we were down by two points with two seconds left and I hit a 51-yard field goal to win the game. Fun, fun experience.
This article is also featured on
Bears Necessity
Sign up now to receive our Cal Bears Football newsletter. All the best articles, videos, and podcasts from around the web delivered to your inbox twice a week.
0 Comments
Loading more comments...
This comment and all replies have been deleted This comment has been deleted Undo delete