Crapigna kicking it up a notch for the Marauders

It’s no surprise to see that veteran McMaster placekicker Tyler Crapigna played a role in the Marauders’ overtime win over the Guelph Gryphons yesterday.

For a rookie kicker to boot a game-tying field goal from 41 yards out in his first CFL appearance is pretty awesome.

To kick the game “winning” field goal a few minutes later, from 42 yards, is even more impressive — but it’s definitely not surprising, when that kicker is Tyler Crapigna.

The 24 year old Nepean native wasn’t able to beat-out last year’s CFL special teams player of the year, Rene Parades, for the job in Calgary, but he’s happy to be back at McMaster. And make no mistake, his teammates and coaches are glad to have him.

Kickers and special teams coach Dana Segin: “You know, I’m gonna enjoy this year with him because he’s a great player to coach, but it’s gonna be great to follow him in his career next year and moving on.”

Crapigna has been making headlines since his first year in maroon, albeit not always for the best reasons. As a freshman he broke his leg during a game, putting his football future in jeopardy.

The following year he not only came back, he kicked the overtime field goal that won the Marauders their first Vanier Cup. And earlier this year, he was selected 40th overall in the CFL draft by the Calgary Stampeders.

“I feel like coming back from a camp like that, with the experience I have now it makes this seem a lot more like home. I can come in here and be relaxed and do what I do even better.”