Walsh ready to get to Athens

Georgia’s presumptive place kicker for 2008 and beyond is eager to get to Athens.

Blair Walsh profile

Blair Walsh, who was selected as an All-American after a stellar senior season, will handle the place kicking duties for the Bulldogs for what could be one of the most anticipated seasons in a while. He’s been at work to make sure he’s ready to go when he steps on campus.

“I’ve been keeping up my regular kicking routine,” Walsh said. “I go out and kick between five and six days a week. I keep my practice the way it’s supposed to be – I’ve not changed that any.”

Walsh said he contracted mono at the end of his senior season. That set him back some, but he’s recovered over the last couple of months. In fact, Walsh is tipping the scales over 180 pounds right now.

“I’ve been going to the gym all of the time, and I gained 16 pounds,” he said. While kickers’ weight may not be as vital as the rest of the positions, the work in the weight room shows Walsh is dedicated to being in the best condition possible for his team.

The Florida native said he plans on rooming with Jonathon Owens, Bryce Ros and Jeremy Longo. He said He has been keeping in touch with that group and walk-on snapper Ty Frix from Calhoun. Walsh and Frix will likely be the field goal combination used from the 2009 season on.

As for the upcoming season and the summer preceding it, Walsh said he’s ready to play ball.

“I just want to prove myself,” Walsh said. “I want to show my stuff. I know that comes a little later in the summer (for kickers). I can’t wait to get up there.”

Walsh will arrive in Athens the last weekend of May, he said.