Nova Scotia kicking phenom opts for NCAA’s New Mexico State Aggies (VIDEO)

This afternoon, Nova Scotia recruit Greg Hutchins announced that he will continue his gridiron career south of the border.

After signing with the Carleton Ravens back in February 2015, the 6’3, 205 pound kicker/punter from Bedford, Nova Scotia has opted out and decided to commit to NCAA Division 1 Football Bowl Subdivision team, New Mexico State Aggies.

The Nova Scotia standout is a late signee and will join the the Aggies for the 2015 NCAA season.

Hutchins issued the following statement regarding his decision:

“Today I am announcing that I have de-committed from the Carleton Ravens to accept an offer to join the NCAA Division 1 (FBS) New Mexico State Aggies as their punter and back-up kicker for 2015.”

“It is important for me to stress that Coach [Steve] Sumarah has remained supportive of me, my family, and my choices since he first approached me about joining the Ravens at the 2013 Football Canada Cup in Moncton. Although the opportunity to play D1 football was nearly impossible to pass up, I still believe that Carleton would be the best place for me to play if I were to stay in Canada, or if for some reason I decide to return.”

“I can’t thank Coach Sumarah, his staff and the team enough for their warm and enthusiastic welcome, and all the help and guidance I’ve received since the day I signed. It really means a lot to me to have Coach Sumarah’s blessing on this big decision.”

“I’m excited that the Aggies first game this year is against the Florida Gators at the ‘Swamp’ in front of more than 80,000 fans!”

Among the teams Hutchins has suited up for during his career include Charles P Allen Cheetahs of the Nova Scotia Student Athletic Federation Football League (NSSAFFL – 2013/2014), Bedford Bantam Saints (2011/2012) and the Team Canada’s under-18 squad (2014/2015).  In addition to being a kicker and punter, Hutchins also played at the receiver position during his high school stint.

The following are his kicking/punting stats throughout the course of his time the Cheetahs:

Punt Distance Average:    45.5    Long:  73
Kick-Off Distance Average:   64 Long: 85
Field Goals: 33/41 (80%)            Long: 48
Extra Points:  72/74 (97%)

Throughout his career, the Nova Scotia kicker/punter has been recognized provincially, nationally and in North America for his talent.  Below is a list of awards and honours he has received:

2015 Chris Sailer Kicking – Las Vegas XXV
Punt Competition Finalist

2014 Nova Scotia Sport Athletic Federation Football League
Division 1 – MVP

2014 Nova Scotia Sport Athletic Federation Football League
Division 1 – Outstanding Kicker/Punter

2014 Nova Scotia Sport Athletic Federation Football League
1^st Team All-Star Receiver

2014 Charles P Allen Football
Team MVP

2014 Charles P Allen Football
Special Teams Player of the Year

2014 Football University
Top Gun Selection

2014 University of Oregon Specialist Camp
Punting Champion

2014 University of Oregon Specialist Camp
Kick-Off Champion

2014 University of Oregon Specialist Camp
Field Goal Runner-up

2014 Chris Sailer Kicking
Event Elite Selection

2014 Chris Sailer Kicking – Las Vegas Spring Event
Preliminary Punt Competition Runner-up

2013 Sport Nova Scotia [football]
Male Team Athlete of the Year

2013 Football Nova Scotia
High School Player of the Year

2013 Football Nova Scotia
Provincial MVP Offense

2013 Nova Scotia Sport Athletic Federation Football League
 2^nd Team All-Star Receiver

2013 Nova Scotia Sport Athletic Federation Football League
Nova Division – Outstanding Kicker/Punter

2012 Wilson Challenge
Final Game MVP

2012 Wilson Challenge
Tournament 1^st Team All-Star Kicker/Punter

2012 Bedford-Sackville Minor Football
Special Teams MVP

2011 Bedford-Sackville Minor Football
Special Teams Award

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