DITR: Alonso Ruiz

Alonso Ruiz is a 6’1, 181-pound kicker out of Caldwell Parish High School in Columbia, LA. Alonso has only been kicking for a few months but has a very impressive stat under his belt. The class of 2022 kicker has concerted a 58-yard field goal. To go along with that, he has buried kicks in the endzone, rarely giving teams opportunities for returns. This can be strongly attributed to his soccer background. Alonso has plenty of room for growth at the next level and will make a difference.

When did you begin playing football?

I started playing football this August. I’m an exchange student from Spain so I spent my whole life playing soccer. When I came, they didn’t have soccer at the school so I decided to play football.

Who are your motivators for playing the game?

Myself. I like to motivate myself by working hard. I work every day to be better then the day before. I like watching professional kickers videos.

What kind of value do you think you can bring to a college program?

I’ve only been kicking since August and I’ve made a 58-yard field goal. I’ve consistently put kicks in the end zone. I think that’s a good foundation to build on.

What valuable lessons have you learned from playing the game of football?

It’s not much different than what I’ve learned my whole life from playing soccer. You learn from being defeated; you learn from losing. I think you have to fail first in order to succeed.

What are you looking forward to about getting to play in the bowl?

Getting more experience. I want to stay in LA and kick college. I’m interested in the exposure to college coaches and playing in front of professionals. It’s an honor to be invited.