Diamond in the Rough: Nolan Heitmeier

Nolan Heitmeier is a 5’10 150lbs senior all-district and all-state kicker at Holy Cross High School in New Orleans, Louisiana.

How long have you been playing football and what do you love about football?

I started playing football in the 4^th grade and there is nothing like playing football, I mean I like the intensity and the atmosphere of the game.

What has football taught you about yourself as a person?

It has taught me to always persevere and it has taught me that you can really push your limits beyond what you originally could do. Because some people say that I couldn’t do x y and z, so I have proving them wrong with sports and academics.

Who is your biggest motivator?

My dad and grandfather because they both played for Holy Cross and my dad was also a kicker in 94, 95, and 96. My dad always pushes me to do what he couldn’t. I’m really glad he pushed me as far as he did.

What made you decide to be a kicker?

Mainly because of my dad, I didn’t want to do it at first but then he some stories about when he was playing and the great experiences he had with his team. I wanted to experience it for myself and it was the smartest decision I ever made to this day.

As a kicker what area of your game do you try to focus on more?

To me its all mental, mental preparation is the key because your mind has to be right.

What did you think about the Louisiana Gridiron Football bowl game you played in recently?

It was fun I just wished they had a lot more food and more time practice. But overall I had a very good time.