Even as a sophomore, starting kicker Ben O’Brien watched his kick-off sail 67 yards down field during the Oct. 30 game against Northside.

O’Brien doesn’t feel the pressure of being a sophomore starting for the varsity team, which is usually reserved for more experienced players. He just takes it all in stride.

“It feels awesome,” he said.

O’Brien’s football bio is short. He began playing football his freshman year at Southwest Junior High. He joined the Cougar football team for one reason. He wanted to be part of the team. Since O’Brien plays soccer, he decided to go for kicker.

O’Brien’s biggest and most memorable hit came during his first regular season game at the varsity level against Lebanon, MO in the Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. O’Brien saved a potential Lebanon kick-off return for a touchdown.

The kicker cut across the field, dove out at the ball carrier, and smashed the Lebanon returner on the white sideline marker.

All three of the special teams kickers, senior Evan Johnson, Jesus Sidon, and O’Brien, have been putting in the extra work on the practice field.

Special teams can be a vital key to the football team’s success. Johnson’s fake punt run for a a touchdown, Sidon’s numerous field goals from impressive ranges, or O’Brien’s countless touchbacks have allowed the football team to have a slight edge over the opponent.

“Coach Haney (Special Teams Coach) always has us doing different workouts. We practice certain kicks or trick plays. It helps keep the long practices fun,” O’Brien said.