Kicker to walk on for Tide Monday, January 17, 2005
http://www.al.com/alabama/mobileregister/index.ssf?/base/sports/1105956953176350.xml
Alabama could not free up a scholarship for him, but former UMS-Wright kicker Andrew Friedman's heart was in it anyway.
Friedman passed up a scholarship offer from West Virginia to accept an invited walk-on position at Alabama after an official visit to the Capstone this weekend.
"My whole life I've kind of wanted to go to Alabama," Friedman said. "I felt like I'd be happiest at Alabama regardless."
The 6-foot-2, 184-pounder with the big leg should have a chance to challenge for placekicking duties right away with the graduation of All-SEC kicker Brian Bostick.
"I think I could compete for the job next year, and if I win it, they said they'll give me a scholarship."
The Tide staff began recruiting Friedman during a super junior season, during which he connected on 10 of 13 field goals, including a long of 46 yards, and 52 of 56 PATs. He also put 56 of 88 kickoffs into the end zone in 2003.
Friedman wasn't as accurate as a senior, connecting on just 4 of 14 field goals. But he missed only three PATs and put 66 kickoffs into the end zone.
Friedman said he intends to register for the second summer session at Alabama and begin a workout program to prepare for fall camp.
The placekicker competition projects as a crowded scene next fall.
-- ROLL TIDE!! RMc.
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