Kicker Mitchell Ward kicks game-winning field goal vs. Howard (Courtesy of http://www.dsuhornets.com)

By Byron Dixon

The Hornets won a nail-biting game versus MEAC rival Howard due to kicker Mitchell Ward’s game-winning field goal as time expired. Ward,  a Junior, won MEAC Special Team’s Player of the Week for the kick.

When asked about how it feels to win the award, Ward said, “I’m honored to win such a special award. I know people think kickers are not important, but I know when the game is on the line I need to be ready to help my team with a field goal. I practice my kicking extensively every day for moments like this.”

Ward was born in England and lived there until he moved to the United States at 14-years-old. He participated in football, soccer and track & field at Dougherty Valley High. He holds the school record for most points in a game by a kicker (10), longest field goal (40 yards), and most kicking points in a season by a kicker (52).

Ward is essential in the Hornets future from the special team’s aspect. Football is a game with three phases and sometimes special teams is the difference between victory and defeat.