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From Worst to
First
I
broke my leg and dislocated my ankle in 1973 during the OSU/MICHIGAN game on
national TV. it was the lowest point in my life as I was ending my rookie
season as the worst punter in the Big Ten and in the nation with a 35 yard
punting average.
The second string punter took over for me in the Rose Bowl and averaged 42
yards per punt. The doctor told me I would probably limp and might not be
able to punt off of that left leg like I used to.
I walked around campus for 2 1/2 months with a cast up to my hip and
ironically my right leg gained 1 3/4" around the thigh from dragging
that cast around. My father told me everything happens for a reason and it
happens for the best.
I didn't believe him because I thought he was just trying to keep my mind off
the injury. But, I worked out hard during my rehab and punted nearly every
day. I came back as a sophomore and led the nation with a 46 yard average and
made All American.
I went from worst to first in one year all because of a broken leg.
Don't ever get down no matter what happens to you because it happens for a
reason. It ends up making you stronger. Always do your best and give back
something to others after you succeed.
If you believe it you will achieve it. Enthusiasm breeds confidence in
others.
Tom Skladany
All-American from Ohio State University
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