Joey Scardina has always had a fondness for the Army.
Scardina used to decorate his elementary school locker with tanks and American flags.
Little did Scardina know back then the opportunity that would present itself with an offer to play Army football earlier this year. Scardina couldn’t wait to see West Point following the offer from Black Knights linebacker coach Justin “Juice” Weaver.
And, Scardina wasn’t disappointed. The Rock Bridge (Mo.) kicker committed to Army before his visit ended Friday,
“The minute I got on campus I knew it was my home,” Scardina said. “The history behind everything is so fascinating to me and they have an amazing brotherhood. Had a campus tour and facilities tour and I loved every second of it. So, I told the coaches this is what I want to do for my career path and football.
“I am set up for the rest of my life so I can provide for my future family.”
Scardina, who has kicked his whole life, didn’t take it seriously until the spring of his sophomore year. He had won the starting kicking job near the end of his sophomore season and the chance of playing college football at a high level was a possibility. Scardina trained “harder than I ever have to be the best kicker I possibly could.” He made all four of his regular-season field goals and every extra point as a junior.
As Scardina looks into the future at Army, he sees opportunity. The Black Knights’ top kickers are seniors Quinn Maretzki and Cole Talley.
“By the time I come in, the spot will be up for grabs and with my talent level I will go and compete for that spot,” Scardina said.
A fraternal twin, Scardina is considering competing in track this spring. He’s ran a 40-yard dash in 4.5 seconds. Scardina is attending a church camp in North Carolina this week.
“Friends, family, and God are the three most important things to me,” Scardina said. “Along with that is football.”
