For as long as he can remember, Anthony Markovski has had an aspiration of kicking, whether it be a football or soccer ball.
The Dakota High School (MI) kicker's aspirations have turned out quite nicely for the Class of 2024 prospect, who has transferred his kicking abilities from the pitch to the gridiron in recent years and is starting to attract the attention of college coaches.
"Ever since I was young, kicking has always been an aspiration of mine, but I never really thought I’d take it as serious as I do today. My grandfather and my dad worked with me a lot with kicking when was younger and really lead me to the path. At about 13, I realized my talents were too good, and had enough to make it to the next level if I worked hard and I need to start taking it serious," Markovski told Heartland Sports Report recently.
However, before turning his attention to the bright stadium lights on Friday nights in the fall, Markovski established himself as quite a soccer player.
"I played soccer for 11 years which really developed my strength and definitely made a huge impact to this day. I played soccer until freshman year, because my freshman year I made the decision to focus on kicking. I'd say I miss soccer, but I knew inside I really didn’t have as a big as a future as I have for kicking," he said.
The future has been bright for Markovski as a kicker as he played a role in the Cougars winning a district title this season in Michigan.
And, his success extends beyond just the season, as he was recently tabbed as the 18th best kicker and a 4.5 star kicker by Kohl's Kicking/ESPN.
"The thing I enjoy most about football is working and training hard to become the best I can be. I work hard to compete at camps, against talent from all over the country. Being a 4.5 star kicker and #18 in the country via Kohls Kicking/ ESPN isn’t easy, but I take pride in my hard work and dedication for the game. Overall, I love facing adversity because at the end of the day, it makes me a better leader for my team and an even better athlete," Markovski said.
And, as a kicker, he acknowledged there is quite a bit of adversity for him to deal with during a game, but the standout admits he tries to keep it all in perspective.
"Dealing with pressure isn’t easy, but, really it’s just a trait you develop over time. I always remember to myself when I'm about to kick, “ I got this. I’ve made 90 percent of these in practice, so why can't I make it now” and really just lock in right before that. Staying loose on the sideline definitely helps with the pressure as it gets my mind off of the loud crowd and prepares me for what’s to come," Markovski acknowledged.
Along the way, Markovski has drawn the attention of several college coaches, as well, something he hopes he can turn into a scholarship down the road.
"Recruiting has been solid for me. As a sophomore, I’ve received a bit of interest from a couple of Division I schools. I went on a game day visit with Toledo, as well as two with Central Michigan University. I enjoyed both visits and the talks I had with the staff," he said.
As for what he is looking for in a school, the sophomore sensation says there is quite a bit.
"I’m looking to go to a school that gives me a fair shot at an opportunity of starting when I first get there, an elite coaching staff, and, hopefully, a school that gives me a scholarship, or can make an agreement if I do well, I will earn one," Markovski told HSR.
Until then, he is focused on the upcoming football season and getting better.
"My goals for this season are to have a better season than last year, get a ton of touchbacks and field goals on film, and break some school records," he said.
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