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| Long Snapper Nate Boyer before running on the field before the game |
Special Teams University Long Snapping Coach Kyle Stelter was able to catch up with former UT long snapper Nate Boyer as he prepares for his pro day and attends a few college senior combines.
If you don't know Nate's story, here is some background on him: http://sports.yahoo.com/news/the-unlikely-story-of-a-long-snapping-green-beret-with-an-nfl-dream-022552855-ncaaf.html
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| Long Snapper Nate Boyer 2013 NFF Legacy Award Recipient |
1. How did you learn to long snap? When did you learn to snap?
I taught myself to long snap by watching Youtube videos and just trial and error. I learned to snap 3 years ago.
2. How nervous were you going into your first game?
The first snap was a little nerve racking just bc I knew the team was relying on me and I didn't want to let them down.
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| Long Snapper Nate Boyer hands a ball to a young fan pregame |
3. What was it like walking onto a big program?
Walking onto Texas was an amazing experience. There's nothing like playing in front of 101,000 people.
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| Long Snapper Nate Boyer shakes hands with fans before the game |
4. Has your age helped or hurt you?
It's been tough with my age for people to take me seriously, however my experiences give me a sort of confidence that I think is an advantage.
5. When did you decide the NFL was a goal of yours?
I decided to shoot for the NFL just a couple of months ago after I played in an all-star game and received from interest from scouts.
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| Long Snapper Nate Boyer running down field on a punt |
6. How did you transition from punt snaps to FG snaps?
I actually started out doing field goal snaps, the transition was easy because they are completely different long snaps.
7. Is there a similarity between being a soldier and a football player? Differences?
Football and combat have absolutely nothing in common, but the discipline to be a soldier and play football at an elite level have many things in common.
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| Long Snapper Nate Boyer posing for a picture over-seas |
8. What has been your favorite moment of playing for the University of Texas?
My favorite moment was coming from behind in the 4th quarter to beat Oregon State in the Alamo Bowl a few days after my best friend passed away, and then beating OU in the Cotton Bowl the next season.
9. Who are some long snappers you look up to?
I don't really know too many other long snappers, but I guess I'd say Jon Dorenbos from the Philadelphia Eagles because he has such an amazing story.
Check out our interview with Jon Dorenbos here: http://specialteamsu.blogspot.com/2013/03/special-teams-university-interviews.html
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| Long Snapper Nate Boyer after a win |
10. How much have you evolved as a snapper from when you started until now?
Any advice for young snappers?
I'm constantly evolving and trying new things when it comes to long snapping. Since I've only been doing it for 2 years there is still much room for improvement. My advice is get your butt in shape. Just because you long snap it is not an excuse to be a non-athlete. Get in the weight room and work harder than anyone else, at any position group. It will produce results you couldn't even imagine if you're willing to sacrifice.
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| University of Texas Long Snapper Nate Boyer |
We wish Nate the best of luck in his pursuit of the NFL!
