Hartley used to overcoming adversity

papz · 08-16-2011, 07:03 AM

Sheldon Mickles
Advocate Sportswriter

METAIRIE - In just 2-1/2 seasons with the New Orleans Saints, kicker Garrett Hartley has experienced more highs and lows than a 25-year-old could ever imagine.

He’s made game-winning kicks, including one that sent the Saints to Super Bowl XLIV, and has missed kicks that would have won games in the closing seconds.

He’s also the only player in NFL history to boot three field goals of 40 yards or longer in a Super Bowl after making kicks of 46, 44 and 47 yards in a 31-17 win over the Indianapolis Colts.

Because of that, Saints coaches and management view the diminutive Hartley, who has an exceptionally strong right leg, as a valuable asset despite an occasional hiccup.

Aside from leg strength, another thing that sets Hartley apart is how he responds to adversity. Both times the former Oklahoma star missed a game-winner, he’s shaken it off and bounced back with a string of successful kicks.

“It’s really just believing in yourself and your own abilities,” Hartley said of the tough times he’s been through. “As much as you strive to be perfect and want to be perfect, sometimes that’s not the case. And it’s really about how you battle through it.

Full article below.
Highs and lows | Saints | The Advocate — Baton Rouge, LA

08-16-2011, 07:03 AM	#1
papz Problem? Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: New Orleans Posts: 11,772	Hartley used to overcoming adversity Sheldon Mickles Advocate Sportswriter METAIRIE - In just 2-1/2 seasons with the New Orleans Saints, kicker Garrett Hartley has experienced more highs and lows than a 25-year-old could ever imagine. He’s made game-winning kicks, including one that sent the Saints to Super Bowl XLIV, and has missed kicks that would have won games in the closing seconds. He’s also the only player in NFL history to boot three field goals of 40 yards or longer in a Super Bowl after making kicks of 46, 44 and 47 yards in a 31-17 win over the Indianapolis Colts. Because of that, Saints coaches and management view the diminutive Hartley, who has an exceptionally strong right leg, as a valuable asset despite an occasional hiccup. Aside from leg strength, another thing that sets Hartley apart is how he responds to adversity. Both times the former Oklahoma star missed a game-winner, he’s shaken it off and bounced back with a string of successful kicks. “It’s really just believing in yourself and your own abilities,” Hartley said of the tough times he’s been through. “As much as you strive to be perfect and want to be perfect, sometimes that’s not the case. And it’s really about how you battle through it. Full article below. Highs and lows \| Saints \| The Advocate — Baton Rouge, LA
	Everyone is entitled to be stupid, but some abuse the privilege. All little common sense goes a long way. Last edited by papz; 12-24-2011 at 06:46 PM..