2019 K Harrison Leonard Makes Quick Decision

2019 Avon Old Farms (Conn.) kicker Harrison Leonard‍ has faced pressure situations before, but on Thursday, the 6-foot, 180-pounder had special teams coordinator Brian Polian evaluating him at practice. 

Leonard had made the trip to South Bend for an official visit in September, and Polian explained he wanted to see him kick in person. Polian made the trip to the Northeast, and the rest was easy. 

“It went really well,” Leonard told Irish Sports Daily. “It was cool to have Coach there. I was hitting the ball well during practice, and he was impressed. We were both on the same page, and it worked out.” 

Ranked as a five-star kicker by Kohl’s Kicking, Leonard admitted he knew Thursday’s practice was significant as he wanted to earn the opportunity to walk-on at Notre Dame, but he also knew he had to be himself. 

“I try not to freak myself out with that type of stuff,” stated Leonard. “I knew it was a big deal, but the important thing was to stay calm and kick the ball. I tried to be myself, and I didn’t try to do too much.” 

Following practice, Leonard was advised he had an opportunity to walk-on at Notre Dame, and it was something he didn’t have to think about. 

“I accepted it right away,” laughed Leonard. “It was a shock. It was an honor to know I’m blessed with this opportunity. Not many people in the world have this opportunity. I thought to myself I better make it count.” 

Leonard’s Resumè

•  Kohl's Eastern Showcase Camp - New Jersey - May 12, 2018. 1st place for kickoff competition at 77 yards and 2nd place for field goal competition (hit from 61 yards - off at 64 yards) (Rising Senior)
•  Dallas, TX - Spring Break 4 day 1 on 1 Training with Jamie Kohl - March 10 -13, 2018. 61-yard field goal made during competition with the top 2 ranked kickers in the USA by Kohl's.
•  Kohl's National Underclassman Challenge in Orlando, FL - Jan.6-7, 2018 - Ranked #7 kicker in the USA at time of the event.
•  Kohl's National Underclassman Challenge in Orlando, FL - Dec. 30-31, 2016 - Ranked #6 kicker in the USA immediately thereafter.
•  Prep Football Fan - Nov 21, 2017 - Best Kicker in Erickson Prep School New England Football League.

Senior Midseason Highlights