Tennessee Tech kicker Carter Brown earned a spot on the Fred Mitchell Award mid-season watchlist after returning to competitive play following two years away from the field.
The national award recognizes placekickers from the FCS, Division II, Division III, NAIA and junior college levels for their performance and community service.
“It means a lot to me just because I didn’t play the past two years,” Brown said. “Being able to get back out there, show what I can do and be recognized for it is really nice to have.”
Brown demonstrated his range this season with two 52-yard field goals against Furman. Brown said opportunities to attempt kicks from that distance have allowed him to show an ability he has possessed but rarely had the chance to display.
“I’ve kind of always had it, not had many attempts from deep, it’s not common to have a coach that sends you out there that often from deep, so it’s been nice kind of being able to showcase what I can do as well as help the team at the same time,” Brown said.
Brown prepared for those opportunities throughout the summer alongside Chase Lanham and Daniel Chevalier. The group practiced kicks from different distances and locations on the field.
“I started with fundamentals, it all comes down to that, so getting those ironed out before the season started really helped me,” Brown said. “All summer I was out there with Chase Lanham and Daniel Chevalier getting reps from deep, close, kind of everywhere we thought we’d be on the field, so became really comfortable with them and being back deep on the field.”
Brown said trust from Tennessee Tech’s coaching staff has also helped him capitalize on those opportunities. He has known Special Teams Coordinator Coach Wilson for eight years.
“It all comes down to belief,” Brown said. “Since I’ve got here Coach Wilder has always believed in me and Coach Wilson I’ve known for eight years the special teams coordinator. Having those guys being able to believe in me and as well just being there for me has been great.”
The Fred Mitchell Award also considers a kicker’s community service. Brown said his experience at Tennessee Tech has given him a reason to return the support he has received.
“It’s important for me to give back to the community because it is a place that’s given me a significant opportunity to show what I can do,” Brown said. “In the little time I’ve been here, everyone’s been great, everyone’s always been caring, supportive, so being able to give back to those people that show up for us on Saturdays or even just support us off the field has been great.”