Francis Placed On Scholarship

AMES, Iowa – Iowa State head football coach Matt Campbell rewarded another walk-on for their determination, work ethic and commitment to the team with the announcement that senior placekicker Christ Francis has been placed on scholarship for his final season.

Francis joins Kyle Kempt and Spencer Benton as Cyclones who entered school as walk-ons but will finish their respective careers on scholarship.

Campbell gave the news to Francis in a team meeting last Thursday.

"Chris is another example of a kid who just kept working," Campbell said. "He's been one of the best kickoff guys in the Big 12 and we are happy to award him for his efforts."

A native of Dubuque, Iowa, Francis joined the Iowa State program in 2014. He quickly made his way onto the field when he became ISU's kickoff specialist midway through the 2015 season.

In 2016, Francis was the co-winner of ISU's Outstanding Walk-On Player Award when he recorded 35 touchbacks in 67 attempts. He had another banner year in 2017, posting 38 touchbacks in 67 kicks, helping the Cyclones rank second in the league in kickoff coverage.

Francis was thrilled when he received the news.

"I was really surprised and in shock," Francis said. "I wasn't expecting that right before a game because we've already started the season. It was just a very surprising and humbling thing."

Francis, who has only attempted one PAT and zero field goal attempts in his career, is hoping to make an impact at placekicker in his final season with the Cyclones. He has the strongest leg on the team and is currently locked in a heated competition with sophomore Connor Assalley and freshman Brayden Narveson.

Right now, Francis is just happy his hard work hasn't been unnoticed.

"It's awesome and it means a lot to me," Francis said. "It's nice to have that hard work finally pay off. I'm thankful that I made it this far and I appreciate everyone who's helped me along the way."

Players Mentioned

Connor Assalley

Spencer Benton

Kyle Kempt

Brayden Narveson

Sponsors

Iowa State University Athletics