Not many people can say they’re among the very best at what they do.

At Plano East, the Panthers starting kicker and punter Buzz Flabiano can say just that. A season after making 14 of 17 point-after attempts and hitting a couple of field goals, Flabiano was given a five-star rating by Kohl’s Kicking in Wisconsin.

Kohl’s, which hosts camps and develops some of the best kicking prospects in the country, had Flabiano rated No. 15 kicker in the country in the class of 2022 and the No. 20 punter. For the honor, Flabiano said he was just grateful for the recognition.

“It was just amazing,” Flabiano said. “I’ve been kicking with Kohl’s for a long time and since my first camp, we’ve been putting some great work in. Knowing I earned that through all of their training felt great.”

Flabiano began kicking full-time on the football field in the seventh grade. A soccer player before, he chose quickly that his passion for kicking was more in football, pursuing that path from then on. Head coach Joey McCulloch has monitored his growth over the past few seasons, noting his work ethic stands out.

“I’m sure he was a good soccer player too, but I respect that he followed his passion,” McCullough said. “His passion was kicking field goals and he’s worked hard to develop as a punter as well.”

For the full story, see the Sept. 2 issue or subscribe online.

By Kyle Grondin • [email protected]