Lehigh football kicker takes it one kick at a time

Three steps back. Two steps to the side. One deep breath. 

With attentive focus, Nick Garrido prepares to kick the ball, his mind clear and body prepared.

For Garrido, Lehigh football’s junior kicker, this simple routine represents more than just a field goal. It’s one rooted in tenacity and dedication, representing a return from the torn ACL that sidelined him last year just days before the rivalry game against Lafayette.

Less than a year later, his hard work helped him earn the title of Patriot League Special Teams Player of the Week.

On Nov. 9, the Mountain Hawks took on Holy Cross on the road in Worcester, Massachusetts. Garrido secured the game with a decisive 25-yard kick, and the game marked Lehigh football’s first win against the Crusaders since 2017.

Mike Kashurba, Lehigh’s special teams coordinator, said Garrido’s work ethic and drive has helped him improve and become a reliable kicker. 

“Whether he’s out early or staying late, he blends a good balance of being a highly driven, motivated kid with the ability to keep things light and have a good sense of humor and not get jammed up when things don’t go according to plan,” Kashurba said.

What may seem as just one simple kick, has the ability to turn a game around or end it, and Kashurba said Garrido’s mental toughness makes him the right guy to thrive under this pressure. 

Garrido credits his success to his positive mindset and clear focus, which he said allows him to perform with a calm demeanor.

“I only get one chance every time I step on the field, so positive visualization is probably the best method for me,” Garrido said. “I’m always thinking about each kick, going through the right steps and staying on the right path.”

Although Garrido has starred in field goals and kickoffs for his entire collegiate career, he said his journey wasn’t always a clear path. 

Growing up in Easton, Pennsylvania, he began playing football his freshman year of high school. But it wasn’t until March of his senior year that he decided to further pursue his football career by committing to play at Lehigh.  

Garrido said his journey to Lehigh wasa family effort, and he values the unwavering support of his family and peers on the team.

“My family has been with me through it all,” Garrido said. “They’ve seen all my success but also seen all my struggles, yet they’re always with me no matter what.” 

Kashurba said Garrido’s quiet confidence helps teammates and coaches recognize his influence. 

He also said while Garrido may not always be the loudest voice in the huddle, he’s a fierce competitor who’s driven to be the best he can.

“He knows that if he sticks to the process, then the results will take care of themselves,” Kashurba said. 

Junior long snapper David Laganga echoed this sentiment and said Garrido treats every practice like a game day. 

“He consistently encourages his teammates to put in extra work, which makes all of us better,” Laganga said.

Garrido said he’s looking to get the opportunity he lost out on last season — the chance to play in the rivalry, as Lehigh’s final game on the schedule is a bout with Lafayette on Nov. 23.