Lindale Kicker Luc Swimberghe Signs With FCS Power Sam Houston State

LINDALE -- Kickers rarely get a chance to stand in the spotlight, but Lindale senior Luc Swimberghe had the stage all to himself on Wednesday.

Swimberghe signed a national letter of intent with Sam Houston State during a National Singing Day ceremony at the Lindale High School cafeteria.

The 6-0, 185-pounder said the program's recent success, which includes back-to-back trips to the FCS national championship game, played a major role in his decision.

“(Head coach Willie Fritz) is a great coach," Swimberghe said. "He knows how to win, he’s been in the national championship game two years in a row now. That says a lot about what kind of coach he is and the caliber of guys that he’s bringing in.”

Swimberghe said he also had a scholarship offer from Northwestern State, and a preferred walk-on offer from Louisville. But he decided Huntsville was the place for him back in June.

“It’s awesome, it’s a weight off my back," he said. "You always worry about whether or not you’re gonna have the opportunity to play at the next level or where you’re gonna play at the next level. It’s just good to know that I have a home.”

Lindale head coach Mike Meador praised Swimberghe's accomplishments.

“He was a huge factor because he kicked a lot of touchbacks," he said. "Of course, being able to make a field goal was a big deal. Not only was he our kicker, but he was our punter too and averaged over 40 yards per punt. He was a huge asset to our football program. Special teams is very important and Luc made ours very special.”