By Steven Shaff, NAU Athletics Media Relations

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. – Rising junior Andy Wilder has big shoes to fill with the graduation of kicker Matt Myers and punter Drew Zamora last season, filling the kicker role for the Lumberjacks this spring in preparation for the 2012 season. After waiting on the sideline for the last three seasons, he is ready to take the field.

"I am totally excited," said Wilder after the first practice. "I want to fill the shoes those guys left behind. I know it is a big role and I feel I am capable to take that position."

Myers took every field goal attempt over the last three seasons, while Zamora handled all but four punts and seven kickoffs (all by Wilder). But Head Coach Jerome Souers says Wilder is ready for the opportunity after serving as a backup the last two seasons and a redshirt campaign.

"Andy Wilder is a very talented young man and he has been waiting his turn," said Souers. "He has had some old guys that have mentored him the last couple years. I think he is ready for his time. He will pick up where those guys left off and set a new benchmark for the kicking game. He is a very talented specialist with a very strong leg. We are excited about Andy."

The opportunity ahead includes filling the three kicking positions and the increased work load that comes with each. The Scottsdale, Ariz., native has prepared for the opportunity he has this spring as the only kicker on the roster. NAU also signed a high school kicker to join the team in the fall

"I have been lifting and kicking to prepare to kick so much this spring," said Wilder. "I think the lifting has helped a lot."

Wilder was a 2009 graduate of Notre Dame Prep and was a four-year letter winner for Coach Scot Bemis. He earned all-state honors at punter with a 41.3 yard per punt average, as well as all-region at punter, wide receiver and free safety, while helping his team to back-to-back state championships.

But he has seen action in only six games with limited opportunities over the last three years. But he did not waste any time to make a first impression on Tuesday. He showcased his strong leg on the first day of spring practice, booming several punts with impressive hang time during drills.

"Andy has got a big leg and he will be working with Coach Souers on the different rules and schemes, as well as taking over the punting chores," said Special Teams Coordinator Dave Reeves. "We are excited about it."

Reeves is referring to new NCAA rules for the upcoming season that will move up the kickoff spot five yards while touchbacks will now be placed up five yards on the 25 yard-line. The decision on each kickoff will involve increased strategy in every game.

"I love it," said Wilder of the rule changes. "I can bash it out of the end zone from even closer now or I can decide to hang it up in the air and stop the guys within the 25-yard line. Hopefully we get the best out of both situations."

The Lumberjacks continue the first week of practice with workouts Thursday and Saturday.