For the 2025-26 school year, Wilkes football senior kicker Nick Volpone has been named Athlete of the Year. During the course of his senior season, Volpone racked up the awards.
He was named Landmark Conference Specialist Athlete of the Week on Sept. 29, 2025 and Oct. 7, 2025, as well as Second Team All-Landmark Conference on Nov. 20, 2025.
On Jan. 6, Volpone was named to the CSC Academic All-District Team, one of four Wilkes players awarded the honor.
As for the statistics, Volpone’s 14 field goals broke a single-season program record. He went 14-for-16 on field goal attempts, leading the Colonels with game-winning field goals to begin and close the 2025 season.
On Sept. 6, 2025 against King’s College, Volpone’s 38-yarder was the difference maker in the Mayor’s Cup Game. To close out the season, his field goal in the dying seconds against Shenandoah was the deciding score, giving the Colonels their second bowl win in three seasons.
What are you most proud of from this past season?
The proudest thing I would have to say is how much of a vital role the kicking position was this year and being able to capitalize on each opportunity provided.
Starting off the season with a Game Winner against a rival in the Mayors Cup was a huge milestone and uplifted my confidence throughout the whole season honestly.
Also traveling down to Virginia for the Chesapeake Bowl Game and ending my career with a walk off field goal is something I am extremely proud of.
How have you grown the most as an athlete this past season?
My field maturity has definitely developed a lot over this past season compared to earlier in my career.
Being able to execute and be an asset to the team whenever my number is called was a testament to the growth made through, the hard work and critical coaching.
What has your team meant to you throughout your time at Wilkes?
Being a member of the Wilkes University football team was like being a part of a huge family. It has meant a lot to be a part of this program and I will always be grateful for Wilkes University Football.
What was your most memorable moment from this past season?
When in the dying seconds of the Cape Henry Bowl after sinking the kick and feeling how electric the atmosphere was in that moment was amazing! The whole team rushed the field, It was a sea of yellow helmets in celebration.
But most importantly seeing the expressions on my parents faces as I concluded my collegiate career in that manner was the best!
I am extremely thankful for my father, mother and sister for all the sacrifices and support throughout my career at Wilkes University. I also want to thank my grandparents for always watching over me while on the field.
What does it mean to you to win the Men’s Athlete of the Year award
Winning this award represents all the early mornings, tough practices, and pressure situations. The consistent support I’ve had from coaches, teammates, and the entire Wilkes community. I’ve learned a lot about staying focused, being consistent, and handling both success and failure the right way.
More than anything, this award reflects being part of something bigger than myself. I’m proud to represent Wilkes University and our program, and I’m grateful for the people who’ve pushed me to get better every day.
What’s something people don’t see about the work you put in?
I would say people don’t really see how strong of a mindset you must have. Everyone sees the kicks on game day, but they don’t see the hours spent staying locked, going to Widener University when I’m home during the offseason, perfecting the same routine over and over.
There’s a lot of pressure that comes with knowing your moment might only come a few times a game, and you have to be ready every single time.