By Steve Svetovich
There are those who stand apart and set the standard for others to reach.
Take Dunmore senior kicker Peyton Badyrka.
The senior stalwart is so good that he has sites on a potential college scholarship as a kicker at any division level, possibly division I.
He made 44-of-45 extra point kicks and five field goals, including a game winner against Old Forge in the final seconds, last season.
Already this season, he nailed a 42-yard field goal and was two-for-two on extra point kicks in Dunmore’s opening night win, 17-6, over Wallenpaupack
Son of Johanna and Daniel Badyrka, Dunmore, Peyton was a star soccer player the past three years at Dunmore. He was All Regional as a center mid last season as a junior.
However, Peyton said he is not playing soccer this year because he wants to concentrate on football in hopes of earning a scholarship on the division I or II level.
Don’t count him out.
He has a total of eight career field goals and has missed only three extra point attempts in his Dunmore football career.
The senior stalwart said he has learned a lot from Dunmore head football coach Kevin McHale. “He teaches us to work hard and get stronger and more athletic. He teaches us to be a good person overall and to treat everyone with respect. Treat people right on and off the field.”
All Regional and All League as a junior kicker last season, Peyton said his personal goal as a senior is to be All State. “That would be the ultimate goal. And after that to kick in college.”
When he is not working hard on his kicking skills, Peyton likes to relax and listen to rap, hip hop and other music. His favorite musical artist is Lil’ Uzi-Zeck, a rap and hip hop artist.
Peyton said his parents have always supported him in every possible way. “My parents always teach me to work very hard. They will support me either way. They also teach me to treat everyone the same way, with respect.”
Peyton is an honor student with a 90 academic average. His best subject is computer coding. He would like to study computer science or business in college.
He talked about what it takes to excel as a kicker in high school football.
“You need to keep the same intensity on every kick. You need a short memory and to look at every kick you attempt as a game winner.”
Peyton said he really is aiming to focus on football right now. “My goal is a division I or II college football scholarship. I want to kick in college And I want to do well with my college studies, graduate and get a good job.”
The standout senior kicker said he has enjoyed his experiences at Dunmore High School. “I have made a lot of friends and learned a lot of life lessons at Dunmore. You get a lot of support from the teachers and coaches. The sports here are fun and a great experience. The whole time here is just a great experience.”