Name: Nick DiCairano
School: Endicott
Position: K
Height: 5’11″
Weight: 170
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
My goal this season was to win a championship with my team. We are able to do that this year by winning the New England Bowl, and having the best season in school history. Personally, I wanted to improve on my kickoffs and overall consistency. I was able to maximize that goal, and had 3 47 yard FGs. Two of which came from a “Mayday” situation. I strived to become bigger and stronger in the off-season, and was successful in doing that.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
My coaches and teammates would say I’m a “We” guy, and not a “Me” guy. I always motivate my teammates to compete on the field, in the weight room, and off the field. They would also say I’m very charismatic. I bring a ton of juice to everything I do, and embrace adversity. Lastly, they’d say I hold people accountable.
Q: When you are studying film, what do you focus on to improve your game?
When I study film, I’m focused on my overall technique. I’m not concerned with the snap or hold, because I can’t control those things. I focus on having a strong upper body, and finishing through the kick. Having a strong technique is vital for any kicker.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
What separates me from the other Pro Prospects is that I’ve had to overcome more adversity. My coach always said, “Adversity reveals a man”, and that’s something I’ve taken to heart. I’ve endured struggles on and off the field that have made me the athlete I am today. Through my college career, I went from Walk-on, to starter, to a scholarship athlete, transferred, and then an All-American. The award and recognitions aren’t what drive me- I’m focused on winning. That’s why I’m different. I do whatever I can to separate myself from my competition and to gain an edge.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
In the off-season I’ve been training with professional kicking coaches across the country. I train with Coach Mike McCabe and Sam Watts, and both are preparing me for the NFL. I’m working on becoming more explosive and just all around a better athlete. Any professional opportunity I’m fortunate enough to receive is one I plan making the most out of.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
I believe I bring a lot to the table for any team both on and off the field. A good attitude is contagious. Any team I play for I want to improve the overall culture. One of my strengths is that I’ll do anything to benefit the team. The ability I bring to the team will speak for itself, but one thing is for certain is that I hold myself to the highest standard possible. No excuses, just results.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL/CFL or any other pro leagues?
My final pitch to NFL teams is that one of my saying is, “Never tell me the odds”. No matter what life has thrown at me, I’ve overcome it all. Everyone said I wasn’t good enough to play in College, and I became a starter. Then they said I wasn’t good enough to become an All-American, and my team and I earned that. I never listened to the naysayers, and I just worked. It doesn’t matter who I compete against, I’m focused on what I can control. The division I played at doesn’t mean anything, because 40 yards in D3 is the same as 40 yards in the NFL.