Spring Ball Spotlight: Will StoneSpring Ball Spotlight: Will Stone
Conor Kvatek / UCF Athletics

Spring Ball Spotlight: Will Stone

by Katharyn Gregory

ORLANDO- As spring ball begins, the UCF newcomers have started to make an impression on the team. From soccer to football Will Stone is not afraid of shying away from change. Even in his fifth year, his journey is just starting to teach him what it means to be a Knight.

Stone played at Texas before transferring to UCF for the final season of his collegiate career. In Stone’s junior year, his touchbacks ranked fifth in the SEC, leading the Longhorns to rank 13th nationally in kick return defense. He held an undeniable presence on the team and last season, used his redshirt before ultimately deciding to play for UCF.

 

Football_CK_4981_040226_0903283420Will Stone | Photo by: Conor Kvatek

The kicker played soccer under his father’s coaching throughout his childhood. His father played both pro and collegiate soccer which naturally drew Stone to the sport. He played until his junior year when, surprisingly, the player turned away from the globally known game. 

Stone abandoned his childhood sport and entered football for his last two years of high school.

“I ultimately had to tell him I wanted to start kicking instead of playing soccer and he handled that great. I had him to support me and without that, there is no chance I would be here.”

Will StoneUCF Kicker

Away from the field post, the Texas native made the decision to stick to his state's roots and play for the Longhorns. In his freshman year, Stone was just starting to get involved on the team when his roommate introduced the player into the world of live music. Whether it's performing on the field or behind a deck, Stone quickly developed a love for creating music and crafting mixes for others to enjoy.

After discovering his drive for EDM (electronic dance music) and house music, he began pursuing a master’s in entrepreneurship. The aspiring DJ wants to eventually use his degree to venture into the vast world of music.

Although Stone is determined to develop his skills on the field, he also holds a passion for growing his skills out of the stadium. While he began playing golf in high school, the fifth-year continued throughout college, playing regularly in both Texas and Florida. 

The kicker believes golf has given him a competitive mindset which lends itself to his performance on the field.

Since joining the Knights, Stone has had the opportunity to work with special teams coordinator Pete Alamar throughout spring practice. The pair previously met a few years prior during a Texas summer camp, where they were able to have a brief conversation during the beginning of camp. Coach Alamar was able to work with Stone during skill training, which allowed him to witness the talent the kicker possesses.

“The thing that's great about him is he is a true guy that's into the craft, he is going to work hard at it.”

Pete AlamarSpecial Teams Coordinator

Though spring ball is in full swing, Stone is ready to get in the Bounce House once the fall campaign begins. This will be his first time playing on the field and after hearing about his peers' experiences in Austin, he is excited to bring his talents to the high energy venue.

“I don't think I've proven anything yet to be honest with you. I think it's all out there for me to go get and out there for me to prove right now.”

Will Stone

As his final season is about to begin, Stone’s advice to young athletes is to not get upset or angry when bad days arise. He believes positivity on the best and worst days helps with both performance and love for the sport. In his words, “just have fun with it.”

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