Sarasota Athlete of the Week: Nick Delfau

Nick Delfau is a rising senior punter/kicker on the Riverview High football team. Delfau is ranked by Kohl's Kicking as the No. 38 punter in the national class of 2025 as of July 9. He currently holds offers from Grinnell College and Wesleyan University. 

When did you start kicking/punting?

I started the summer before my freshman year. I used to play soccer for years and years, but I always loved football. I played it a little when I was younger, but I was never big or strong enough to play other positions. So one day I just decided to start kicking. I have always had a strong leg. I tried out as a kicker my freshman year, but as I progressed I figured out that I was more of a punter. 

What was the transition from soccer to football like?

It was harder than I thought it would be. It's a completely different style. Soccer is more finesse. You are trying to bend the ball. Football, you're trying to hit it straight and as hard as you can. And punting is even harder than kicking because there are more elements. You have to drop the ball and hit the ball a lot cleaner. 

What is your best skill?

I've been told at camps that I have good hands. When I catch the ball, mold the ball and drop the ball, my ability there is what allows me to hit good punts. 

What have you been working to improve?

I have been trying to squat more. I need the quad strength to take the ball farther and higher. I want to get my hang time up and my drops more consistent. Everything stems from the drop. 

What has the camp and recruitment process been like?

It's different from other positions. You have to go to a lot more camps and you have to be more consistent at them. You only get a few balls (to perform). That's all the coach will see. You have to be on your A-game at all times. 

What was your reaction to your offers?

I'm just grateful to be getting noticed. I've done well at some camps, and I have been talking to some coaches. I intend on playing college football in the future. 

What are your goals for your senior season?

I want to push my average distance on punts to 42 or 43 yards. That will mean more consistency. And I want to go 100% on kicks and extra points. 

What is your favorite food?

Duck confit. It's French. It's real good. 

What is your favorite movie?

It is definitely "The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers." 

What are your hobbies?

I like to watch sports. Honestly, I'm usually doing something with a football even during my downtime, whether it is practicing drops or holds. 

What is your favorite school subject?

Math. I have always been a math person, even though I had calculus this past year. 

What is the best advice you have received?

Don't worry about the last kick. Even if it was good, it doesn't matter. Go out and hit the next one. 

Finish this sentence: "Nick Delfau is…"

Focused.