You are here: Home / Archives for Where Are They Now?

Where Are They Now? featuring Geron Eatherly!!!

June 10, 2025 By Leave a Comment

Today, we are featuring Geron Eatherly! Geron is a 2016 TOP 12 Rubio Long Snapper that dominated at Tulane!

What is your occupation?
I recently finished my second year of law school at the University of Wisconsin and am working at a law firm in Milwaukee this Summer.

Where do you live?
I am splitting time between Madison and Milwaukee Wisconsin.

Married? Kids?
I am currently engaged with no kids.

What is your fondest memory of your time playing college football?
My fondest memory would have to be securing bowl eligibility against Navy in 2018with a two-point conversion late in the fourth quarter. It was our last game of the season and ended up being Tulane’s first bowl berth since 2012.

If you could give ONE bit of advice to the current Rubio Long Snappers, what would it be? Snapping PARENTS, what would it be?
Advice for Rubio Long Snappers: Practice how you play! To me it has always been important to approach every snap in practice like it was a live in-game rep. Take your time, approach the ball just how you would in a game, make any checks that you need to in your system, and snap with confidence.

Advice for Long Snapping Parents: Always understand where your child is in their long snapping journey, different snappers at different levels need to work on different things. Your kids need to learn how to snap under pressure but putting pressure on snappers that haven’t developed confidence in their abilities can have the opposite effect. You know your kid better than anyone, help them develop confidence in their snapping when necessary and, once that’s done, start helping them simulate game-like pressure at home.

When was the last time you snapped a ball and for what reason?
May of last year. Some friends and I were in the law school and someone brought a football and asked me to show them a snap.

If you could go back and play football in college again, would you go to the same school or a different one? Why?
I would go to Tulane again regardless of any other factors. Tulane was a perfect fit for me; I had an amazing coaching staff that wanted me to succeed in football but that also put emphasis on success in life after football, something 18-year-old me wasn’t too worried about at the time. The University itself has incredible academics, and I really loved the smaller class sizes. And, as I’m sure all of you know, New Orleans has some of the best food and culture in the entire world.

Any regrets during college? Anything you wish you had done or hadn’t done?
I wish that I spend more time socializing and developing friendships outside of football. I’m grateful for all of the lifelong friends that I made on the team and I wouldn’t trade them for the world but there were plenty of people I met throughout college that I think I could have become close to.

What tremendous thing have you been a part of or experienced since you graduated?
Getting engaged and deciding to move across the country for law school has been an amazing experience. I never thought that I would fall in love with Wisconsin but now I have no plans of leaving. I’ve gotten to spend a lot of time camping, hiking, and fishing throughout the state and even saw the northern lights on backpack camping trip in the Northwoods of Wisconsin.

Rubio Long Snapping is, by far, the biggest and best resource for Long Snappers in the country. Rubio has been featured in the Washington Post, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the USA Today, Deadspin, Sports Illustrated and countless other publications.

Offering the best instruction and most exposure in the world, Rubio Long Snapping can help you to become the best snapper you can be!

In just 20 years, Chris Rubio, President and Owner of Rubio Long Snapping, has become the #1 Long Snapping instructor in the country and the go-to man when a college coach needs a Long Snapper. Colleges from across the country rely on “Rubio’s” word day in and day out on who the best Long Snappers are in the country. Rubio Long Snapping has assisted in over 1,850 Long Snappers earning full scholarships and preferred walk-on opportunities to major colleges and universities just for Long Snapping and many into the NFL as well.

125

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Where Are They Now? Tagged With: ,

Where Are They Now? featuring Evan Jacobsen

June 3, 2025 By Leave a Comment

Today, we are featuring Rubio Long Snapper Evan Jacobsen!

What is your occupation? I am a pastor at Compass Bible Church

Where do you live? We live in New Braunfels, Texas. We moved here from Southern California to help plant a new church!

Married? Kids? I married Candice in 2018. We have two kids — Theodore (4) and Elisabeth (1). Being a husband and dad is one of the greatest gifts in my life. Coming home to them each day — even the epic wrestling matches — is something I treasure.

What is your fondest memory of your time playing college football? Coming to saving faith in Christ. That changed everything — not just in football, but in life. I also got to build deep friendships with teammates who were serious about following Jesus. Playing at Kyle Field as a freshman was unforgettable, but those day-to-day moments with my brothers in Christ are what I treasure most.

If you could give ONE bit of advice to the current Rubio Long Snappers, what would it be? Snapping PARENTS, what would it be?

Put God first. Everything else — football, scholarships, championships, even long snapping itself — will eventually end. What won’t end is eternity. The most important question isn’t where you’ll play next, but where you’ll spend forever. And the only way to be right with God is through Jesus Christ — not by earning it, but by trusting in the One who paid for our sin at the cross.

I learned that the hard way. Football was my identity. I worked hard, trained almost everyday, earned a starting spot, and thought success would satisfy me. It didn’t. When we kept losing, I was miserable. Eventually, I didn’t just want to quit football — I wanted to quit everything. I had made football my everything, and when it couldn’t deliver peace, I was left empty.

But God, in His grace, confronted me. He showed me who I really was — not a child of God, but someone playing for himself and rebelling against Him. That moment broke me… and it saved me. I repented, surrendered my life to Jesus, and found something I never had before: peace. Not in performance, but in grace.

And here’s the surprising part — I didn’t lose my drive. I snapped harder. I cared more. I become more focused and determined to be the best long snapper. But this time, it wasn’t about me. I played for the One who saved me. Our record didn’t improve — we still went 1–11. But I wasn’t shaken. When the NFL door closed, I wasn’t crushed. I was grounded. Because I knew where my real hope was.

Parents, players — please hear this. The joy and freedom I’ve found in Christ, and the joy my parents now share with me, far outweighs any game.

Action step:
Open the Gospel of John. Ask God to show you who He really is. If something’s stirring in your heart, don’t brush it off. Your identity, peace, and future are too important to leave in the hands of a scoreboard.

When was the last time you snapped a ball and for what reason? September 2024 — just to show a group of high school students I could still do it! They were impressed but I was in pain… yet I refused to show my pain. I still do my snap ups, my son sees it as a fun game to try and grab the ball in the air.

If you could go back and play football in college again, would you go to the same school or a different one? Why? Same school — 100%. It’s where God opened my eyes to who I really was and the place where God introduced to me some of my closest friends. I would change the way I approached going to the school I went to. My parents and I did not pray at all about my decision, and we regret that the most.

Any regrets during college? Anything you wish you had done or hadn’t done? Yes — not putting God first. I ignored solid advice, wasted time, and chased success for myself. But God, in His mercy, redeemed those regrets and gave them purpose.

What tremendous thing have you been a part of or experienced since you graduated? Following Jesus, hands down. Everything good in my life flows from that — seeing the joy of my friends getting married, starting families and faithfully following Jesus, getting married myself, fatherhood, friendships, and helping plant a church. Watching lives transform, broken relationships heal, marriages recover, and people live a new life by the gospel of Jesus Christ is far greater than anything I experienced on the field.


Rubio Long Snapping is, by far, the biggest and best resource for Long Snappers in the country. Rubio has been featured in the Washington Post, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the USA Today, Deadspin, Sports Illustrated and countless other publications.

Offering the best instruction and most exposure in the world, Rubio Long Snapping can help you to become the best snapper you can be!

In just 20 years, Chris Rubio, President and Owner of Rubio Long Snapping, has become the #1 Long Snapping instructor in the country and the go-to man when a college coach needs a Long Snapper. Colleges from across the country rely on “Rubio’s” word day in and day out on who the best Long Snappers are in the country. Rubio Long Snapping has assisted in over 1,850 Long Snappers earning full scholarships and preferred walk-on opportunities to major colleges and universities just for Long Snapping and many into the NFL as well.

122

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Where Are They Now? Tagged With: ,

Where Are They Now? featuring Jake Abraham!

May 27, 2025 By

Today, we are featuring Rubio Long Snapping Jake Abraham!

What is your occupation? Financial Analyst at Fisher Investments

Where do you live? Tampa, FL

Married? Kids? Not married, no kids.

What is your fondest memory of your time playing college football?
It’s tough to pick just one honestly. If I had to go with a favorite on field moment, it has to be storming the field with fans in 2014 at home after securing an 8-0 Sun Belt record and our first Sun Belt championship in our first year as a member of the conference.

There’s a ton of moments off the field where I’m just hanging out with my teammates or messing around in the locker room that bring a bigger smile to my face though. Those moments are the best part of being on a team.

If you could give ONE bit of advice to the current Rubio Long Snappers, what would it be? Snapping PARENTS, what would it be?

Advice to current Long Snappers: Pick a school and a location. Don’t pick a coach. Don’t pick based on a person or people. Pick for yourself. Every other person that you interact with in recruiting could be gone. I had 3 different coaching staffs and only 1 single coach that was the same when I left Georgia Southern. My senior class stuck together and of the roughly 20 of us, I think all but maybe 2 or 3 had been there for a full 3-4 years. That bond made us much closer and made everything far more important and just meant more to us as a group in our Senior Year. I still have relationships with them and love them to this day.

Advice to Parents: Please let your kid mature and grow up. When they get to the college recruiting time and choosing a college they’re 16-18 years old. Let them make some decisions for themselves. My parents stayed completely out of my recruiting process except for proofreading emails to coaches for spelling mistakes and simple items like that. They let me speak for myself in recruiting meetings unless they were directly addressed by the coaches. When it comes time to make a decision, offer support and guidance but don’t sway your child. This is one of the first times in their life that they get to make a huge decision for themselves and their life trajectory. Let them be the ones to steer that ship and just be there to help if called upon.

When was the last time you snapped a ball and for what reason? About a month ago I coached a youth camp with an old teammate of mine who’s an Atlanta Firefighter, Ironhead Gallon. We put on a free camp in North Florida and it was mostly just to get kids together and have fun. Did some combine drills, some 7 on 7, and just having fun with a football. Ironhead asked me if I could still snap and I gave a quick stretch and snapped right to his hip of course. I had a good coach.

If you could go back and play football in college again, would you go to the same school or a different one? Why?  I’d go to the same school. I don’t have any regrets about where I went to school. It was a really fun university and was in a great location. The professors and classes prepared me well for the real world and being a professional in the job market. I made wonderful connections there that I still utilize to this day. I am extremely thankful and grateful for the life that my decision to go to Georgia Southern has given me.

Any regrets during college? Anything you wish you had done or hadn’t done? Regrets? Absolutely, but you can’t go through life without a single one of those. One thing I wish I did a little more in college, was try to interact with non-football organizations on campus. Maybe join a club or two with similar interests. I started to get into that when my eligibility ran out and I was still there studying for my MBA because I had the time at that point. I think it’s easy to get caught up in the groups and people that are naturally around you, but make sure you don’t lose yourself and who you are in that. I let some of my interests and hobbies from when I was a younger take a backseat and rediscovering those as an adult has made me happy, but I wish I didn’t have to rediscover them.

What tremendous thing have you been a part of or experienced since you graduated? I think traveling the world a bit. I’ve been able to meet a lot of amazingpeople and see some incredible cultures. I’ve visited Israel, Italy, Austria, and Germany since graduating and I highly recommend going abroad for some time. We forget that America is incredibly young compared to the world. I’ve eaten at restaurants that are older than our country in Germany. I’ve seen buildings that are 3x the age of America. Grabbing perspective from other cultures and learning how they live life a bit differently, for better or for worse, is very important. There’s an infinite number of ways that we can go through life and everyone does it differently, you’ll never do it properly if you don’t try to look at other people’s examples and history’s examples for guidance.

 

Rubio Long Snapping is, by far, the biggest and best resource for Long Snappers in the country. Rubio has been featured in the Washington Post, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the USA Today, Deadspin, Sports Illustrated and countless other publications.

Offering the best instruction and most exposure in the world, Rubio Long Snapping can help you to become the best snapper you can be!

In just 20 years, Chris Rubio, President and Owner of Rubio Long Snapping, has become the #1 Long Snapping instructor in the country and the go-to man when a college coach needs a Long Snapper. Colleges from across the country rely on “Rubio’s” word day in and day out on who the best Long Snappers are in the country. Rubio Long Snapping has assisted in over 1,850 Long Snappers earning full scholarships and preferred walk-on opportunities to major colleges and universities just for Long Snapping and many into the NFL as well.

98

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Where Are They Now? Tagged With: , ,

Where Are They Now featuring Austin Tallant!

May 20, 2025 By

Today, we are featuring 2010 Rubio Long Snapper Austin Tallant!

What is your occupation?
Wedding & Event DJ

Where do you live?
Nolensville, TN

Married? Kids?
Married for almost 10 years (our anniversary is in September). 2 girls and another girl on the way! Reagan is 6, Sophia is 3 and Adeline is arriving in June.

What is your fondest memory of your time playing college football?
After my Junior season, I was nominated for the Allstate Good Works Team and was blessed to go the Sugar Bowl. I had amazing food, met some awesome dudes and got to talk ball with Kirk Herbstreit during the game!

If you could give ONE bit of advice to the current Rubio Long Snappers, what would it be? Snapping PARENTS, what would it be?
Snappers – think of what you do as a craft. It’s not like school or weightlifting or training or really even other parts of the game. It’s very unique and has to be treated with a specific kind of care! You have to foster a desperation to want to be the best. Oh, and FILM everything! Get different angles. The tape don’t lie.

Parents – encourage your son to get around other snappers that are older than him. I’ve never met a snapper that isn’t a great human being so getting him a part of the specialist community is super important for development.

When was the last time you snapped a ball and for what reason?
I still help coach Jon Weeks (49ers LS) here and there in the offseason, but it’s probably been 3 or 4 years since I actually snapped one. Sheesh!

If you could go back and play football in college again, would you go to the same school or a different one? Why?
Same school for sure! As a smaller school, Chowan gave me incredible opportunities off the field and a unique education.

Any regrets during college? Anything you wish you had done or hadn’t done?
I wish I was more disciplined with my diet and pushed myself harder in the weight room. I’ve always been a skinny guy, so I should’ve taken better advantage of trying to put on size.

What tremendous thing have you been a part of or experienced since you graduated?
Being a husband and father has absolutely changed my life! I’m grateful that God has blessed me with the position I’m in. There’s nothing better than being able to serve the kingdom by raising children.

Rubio Long Snapping is, by far, the biggest and best resource for Long Snappers in the country. Rubio has been featured in the Washington Post, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the USA Today, Deadspin, Sports Illustrated and countless other publications.

Offering the best instruction and most exposure in the world, Rubio Long Snapping can help you to become the best snapper you can be!

In just 20 years, Chris Rubio, President and Owner of Rubio Long Snapping, has become the #1 Long Snapping instructor in the country and the go-to man when a college coach needs a Long Snapper. Colleges from across the country rely on “Rubio’s” word day in and day out on who the best Long Snappers are in the country. Rubio Long Snapping has assisted in over 1,850 Long Snappers earning full scholarships and preferred walk-on opportunities to major colleges and universities just for Long Snapping and many into the NFL as well.

58

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Where Are They Now? Tagged With: ,

Where Are They Now featuring Damon Johnson!

May 13, 2025 By

Today, we are featuring 2016 TOP 12er Damon Johnson of USC (Southern Cal)!

What is your occupation?
Just finished my EMT and starting the fire academy this fall and hoping to get fired on as a full time firefighter by January 2026

Where do you live?
Meridian, ID

Married? Kids?
Just got engaged this month and getting married in November of this year

What is your fondest memory of your time playing college football?
Probably winning the Pac-12 and getting to play in the Cotton Bowl at AT&T Stadium against Ohio State and doing it all while starting my freshman year. It taught me a lot at such an early part of my athletic career at USC.

If you could give ONE bit of advice to the current Rubio Long Snappers, what would it be? Snapping PARENTS, what would it be?

Long Snappers
– For any long snapper out there, my one piece of advice would be to stay resilient through the whole process. That goes with not only when the recruiting process starts but even before that process and after. It can be easy (and usually common) to have something not go the way you wanted it to or not how you saw it going but I think it is crucial to kick the dust off, get back on the horse and keep your chin up. The whole process of learning to long snap, try to get recruited, traveling around for the exposure, and making a decision at the end is a daunting one and one that not many get to at the end because of the ups and downs that go with it. So I would say stay resilient through the entire process and for everyone that is going to look different. For some it is going to be to lean on friends and family, for some it will be to stay organized, and others it might be to have an outlet to keep you ground but whatever it is, don’t lose that because that foundation to keep you resilient will make or break a long snapper and that will stick with you when you are getting recruited, when you are playing in college, when you are working in the workforce and when you are starting a family.

Parents
– Being patient is one of the best pieces of advice I could give. It is hard for me to give advice on the process of recruiting because the landscape of college football recruiting is much different from when I was going through the process but having patience is one of the best pieces of advice I could give but it’s also one of the hardest things to pursue in this journey. With my recruiting story, I went from being committed to a full time D-1 scholarship going INTO my senior year to quickly not having a college picked out until the summer AFTER my senior year was over and still went to a D-1 college on a full ride scholarship. I know my parents were pulling out their hair with how this went down but I kept telling them and myself that patience is key and I ended up being right. Also to stay faithful through it all because God doesn’t make mistakes.

When was the last time you snapped a ball and for what reason?
I snapped a ball a couple months ago with my future father-in-law because he was fascinated with the skill and ended up snapping for like 30 minutes in front of his neighbors and everyone was intrigued with what I was doing.

If you could go back and play football in college again, would you go to the same school or a different one? Why?
The same school, USC, was an amazing university that provided a little bit of everything for me. I was able to play in some massive games and bowl games, get 2 quality degrees and a top-10 university, I was in the epicenter of entertainment and things to do, and met some amazing people that I still talk to today.

Any regrets during college? Anything you wish you had done or hadn’t done?
I wish I would have embraced the fellowship a little bit more. When I was playing I understand how fun it was and getting to travel around and play football with my friends but I wish I could have embraced it more because when that last snap happened for me (playing in Cal Berkeley on a Saturday night game) I realized it was all over and I quickly became a football alum and was looking for a job in the workforce.

What tremendous thing have you been a part of or experienced since you graduated?
I would say moving up to Idaho from California and getting engaged has been awesome. I am thankful for how I was raised in California but being able to move up here and being able to fly fish, go shooting whenever I want, travel around, and getting to enjoy the outdoors with my fiancee has been a great experience that I wouldn’t change at all.

Rubio Long Snapping is, by far, the biggest and best resource for Long Snappers in the country. Rubio has been featured in the Washington Post, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the USA Today, Deadspin, Sports Illustrated and countless other publications.

Offering the best instruction and most exposure in the world, Rubio Long Snapping can help you to become the best snapper you can be!

In just 20 years, Chris Rubio, President and Owner of Rubio Long Snapping, has become the #1 Long Snapping instructor in the country and the go-to man when a college coach needs a Long Snapper. Colleges from across the country rely on “Rubio’s” word day in and day out on who the best Long Snappers are in the country. Rubio Long Snapping has assisted in over 1,850 Long Snappers earning full scholarships and preferred walk-on opportunities to major colleges and universities just for Long Snapping and many into the NFL as well.

229

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Where Are They Now? Tagged With: ,

Where are They Now? featuring JJ Davis

May 6, 2025 By

Today, we are featuring 2017 TOP 12er and NC A&T Long Snapper  John Davis!

Occupation?
I live in Miami and work as a Yacht Broker/Captain.

Married?
Very close to engagement with my long term girlfriend!

Fondest memory?
Upsetting ECU in 2018 then going on to win my second straight Celebration Bowl on my birthday!

Advice for Long Snappers?
Develop short term memory. Coaches are not just evaluating your snapping abilities, but also your ability to overcome adversity.

Advice for parents?
Sit back, enjoy a cocktail, and trust the process!

Last time I snapped?
The last game I snapped was at the HBCU legacy bowl in 2022. Last time I snapped at all was about a year ago to my dad while we were looking at old football photos from when I was a kid!

If you could go back?
I would not change a single thing. Playing football at NC A&T and having the long, healthy career that I had was an absolute blessing and greatest time of my life!

Any regrets?
I do have to say I wish I went out and socialized a bit more in college. That’s not to say, you shouldn’t attend every class and not show up early to every football activity. But it’s also important to remember to have fun as these years go by so fast.

Tremendous experience?
I’ve gotten the chance to sell some beautiful yachts these past few years and even captain some. Including a Lamborghini Yacht, the same type Conor McGregor owns!

 

Rubio Long Snapping is, by far, the biggest and best resource for Long Snappers in the country. Rubio has been featured in the Washington Post, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the USA Today, Deadspin, Sports Illustrated and countless other publications.

Offering the best instruction and most exposure in the world, Rubio Long Snapping can help you to become the best snapper you can be!

In just 20 years, Chris Rubio, President and Owner of Rubio Long Snapping, has become the #1 Long Snapping instructor in the country and the go-to man when a college coach needs a Long Snapper. Colleges from across the country rely on “Rubio’s” word day in and day out on who the best Long Snappers are in the country. Rubio Long Snapping has assisted in over 1,850 Long Snappers earning full scholarships and preferred walk-on opportunities to major colleges and universities just for Long Snapping and many into the NFL as well.

53

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Where Are They Now? Tagged With: ,

Where Are They Now featuring Andrew Robinson!

April 29, 2025 By

Today, we are featuring 2014 Rubio Long Snapper Andrew Robinson!

What is your occupation?
Sports Physical Therapist – Currently I am the Division I PT Fellow at the University of Minnesota

Where do you live?
Currently: Minneapolis, MN

Soon  Searching for Professional or Collegiate Sports PT jobs upon completion of Fellowship

Married? Kids?
Yes  DINKWADs (Dual Income, No Kids, With a Dog)

What is your fondest memory of your time playing college football?
I think the fondest memory of my time playing college football was in 2018, my last year playing against Ohio State. Yes, we lost, but it was the only opportunity that my younger brother and I were able to line up across one another in the biggest college football rivalry.

If you could give ONE bit of advice to the current Rubio Long Snappers, what would it be? Snapping PARENTS, what would it be?
Long Snappers:

  • Trust the process, have fun, don’t put extra stress on yourself, and always stay ready.
  • Always build connections outside of football, it won’t last forever. But during your career you will be introduced to opportunities to build connections for life after football that will prime you for success.

Parents:

  • Be the biggest supporter and motivator you can be. Your snapper will most likely have a bad snap or two in their lifetime (not ideal, but even the pros have them), so be the first one there to pick them up and help them respond. Along with, college football has changed, there are many unknowns in this new era and there is no need to add any additional stressors to the process.

When was the last time you snapped a ball and for what reason?
About a month ago, when I was helping teach a DE and TE here with the Gophers how to snap ahead of their pro day. Was of course a pearl, may have needed some Tylenol the next day, so probably will not snap again for another year.

If you could go back and play football in college again, would you go to the same school or a different one? Why?
100% would go back to the University of Michigan. The city of Ann Arbor is a great college town. The Big House is surreal (my first ever actual game in attendance at the Big House was my first collegiate game my freshman year). I have been able to see many college towns and campus, but Ann Arbor and Michigan will always be hoMe.

Any regrets during college? Anything you wish you had done or hadn’t done?
I don’t have any regrets during college. I did contemplate transferring my last year but decided not to because of the connections and friends I made with many of my teammates, and the grass isn’t always greener on the other side. Many of those teammates stood up in my wedding and will be brothers for life.

What tremendous thing have you been a part of or experienced since you graduated?
My current role has really allowed me to build connections with all my athletes that I work with, especially those going through long surgical rehabs. It is an awesome moment, when you are able to watch an athlete return to their sport after going through a long recovery process.

Rubio Long Snapping is, by far, the biggest and best resource for Long Snappers in the country. Rubio has been featured in the Washington Post, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the USA Today, Deadspin, Sports Illustrated and countless other publications.

Offering the best instruction and most exposure in the world, Rubio Long Snapping can help you to become the best snapper you can be!

In just 20 years, Chris Rubio, President and Owner of Rubio Long Snapping, has become the #1 Long Snapping instructor in the country and the go-to man when a college coach needs a Long Snapper. Colleges from across the country rely on “Rubio’s” word day in and day out on who the best Long Snappers are in the country. Rubio Long Snapping has assisted in over 1,850 Long Snappers earning full scholarships and preferred walk-on opportunities to major colleges and universities just for Long Snapping and many into the NFL as well.

63

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Where Are They Now? Tagged With: ,

“Where Are They Now?” featuring Ross Arroyo!!!!

April 22, 2025 By

Today, we feature 2019 Rubio Long Snapper Ross Arroyo of the University of Charleston!

What is your occupation?
I work as the Medical Staff Services Information System Analyst for the second largest health system here in WV as well as some independent ventures to fill time.

Where do you live?
Currently I am still out in wild and wonderful Charleston West Virgina

Married? Kids?
No ring and no kids at this point; closest I got is a girlfriend of a couple years

What is your fondest memory of your time playing college football?
When D2 University of Charleston upset D1 FCS Valparaiso on their homecoming (the score was 19-13). The icing on the cake was that 13 of UC’s points were from the field goal unit, providing another example that special teams wins games!

If you could give ONE bit of advice to the current Rubio Long Snappers, what would it be? Snapping PARENTS, what would it be?
For players… I know its ironic coming from me but you need to relax. Treat every snap the same whether you’re practicing or setting up for the game winner. Stressing yourself out and double checking everything is going to do more harm than good. Breath and fall back on your training, that is the only thing you can control; and even if you do mess up, the world is not going to end, there will be another snap.

For parent… Be your child’s biggest cheerleader, not their biggest critic; you cannot want it more than your kid. I’ve seen many players get burnt out or hate the game because their parents ruin it for them by being just another coach. There will be days they don’t want to practice and sharpen their skills, but if it is a pattern then you need to make sure THEY want it! That is the only way they will have long-lasting success at it.

When was the last time you snapped a ball and for what reason?
I actually did a drill within a week or so, it was the drill where you lay on your back and practice your follow through. It became a relaxing habit/fidget I do when I’m thinking. Although my last full snap was at a Christmas party in 2024.

If you could go back and play football in college again, would you go to the same school or a different one? Why?
I would have still chosen UC; the friends, connections, and growth I’ve gotten out of it is something I wouldn’t want to change.

Any regrets during college? Anything you wish you had done or hadn’t done?
My only regret would be deciding to move off campus my sophomore year. I’d done to avoid getting Covid but when you remove yourself from the college environment you can very quickly lose some of the college experience. Every school is different depending on the campus culture but you’d want to consider that before leaving campus.

What tremendous thing have you been a part of or experienced since you graduated?
I’ve been out for only about 2 years now, but in that time:

  • Brother and I purchased a house
  • Bought my first water heater (way worse than I’d like to admit)
  • Have gotten to become a lead for a project involving data migration/merge to populate the health systems EMR
  • Started a food/catering business with my brother that we do on the side

I’ve also lost about 70lbs which has been quite the experience

_________________

Rubio Long Snapping is, by far, the biggest and best resource for Long Snappers in the country. Rubio has been featured in the Washington Post, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the USA Today, Deadspin, Sports Illustrated and countless other publications.

Offering the best instruction and most exposure in the world, Rubio Long Snapping can help you to become the best snapper you can be!

In just 20 years, Chris Rubio, President and Owner of Rubio Long Snapping, has become the #1 Long Snapping instructor in the country and the go-to man when a college coach needs a Long Snapper. Colleges from across the country rely on “Rubio’s” word day in and day out on who the best Long Snappers are in the country. Rubio Long Snapping has assisted in over 1,850 Long Snappers earning full scholarships and preferred walk-on opportunities to major colleges and universities just for Long Snapping and many into the NFL as well.

175

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Where Are They Now? Tagged With: ,

Where are They Now featuring Connor Kelsey

April 15, 2025 By

Today, we feature TOP 12 Rubio Long Snapper Connor Kelsey of Oregon State! This is a little funny because I just ran into Connor in the Salt Lake City airport to show how small of a world it is.

Here we go….

What is your occupation?

I am a Director of Photography (Cinematographer) at Blue Ox Films.
Where do you live?
I live in Portland, OR but on the road more than I am at home.
Married? Kids?
Single
What is your fondest memory of your time playing college football?
My best memory playing college football besides the comradery was making teo tackles at Ohio State in 2018.
If you could give ONE bit of advice to the current Rubio Long Snappers, what would it be? Snapping PARENTS, what would it be?
Don’t worry about other snappers or negative external factors too much. It’s good to know what those are but if you pay attention to them too much it is going to slowly affect your mentally and eventually your snapping. To snapping parents, be as supportive as you can. College football is a tough environment. It is always good to know that you as a player have someone to talk to about what is going on at any point in time.
When was the last time you snapped a ball and for what reason?
I snapped once last year just to make sure I still have it. Still got it… for now.
If you could go back and play football in college again, would you go to the same school or a different one? Why?
Looking back I would still choose to go to Oregon State. We were not too good when I attended OSU but I did get on the field a lot because of that. The people I met at my time there have helped shape me to be where I am today. I met the owner of the company I work at through alumni at Oregon State and am so grateful that I did. Although I do wish I reached out to more schools before committing to Oregon State. I wanted to stay on the West Coast but after thinking about it more, most colleges are just a different length flight away from home.
Any regrets during college? Anything you wish you had done or hadn’t done?
I wish I had

invested in my mental health more. College football is an extremely stressful environment especially when fighting for a job day in and day out all while balancing a full school schedule. I wish I had taken more time to focus on myself and manage my emotions throughout all of the chaos.

What tremendous thing have you been a part of or experienced since you graduated?
I have been working at Blue Ox Films since January of 2019. Since then have worked on hundreds of projects mainly in the commercial and documentary filmmaking world. I have traveled to dozens of countries and filmed all over the US for companies like Nike, Jordan Brand, Converse, NBA, NFL, Whoop, Netflix, HBO, and more. I’ve been fortunate to work on a documentary the past 3 years about the Air Force Thunderbirds called “Air Force Elite: Thunderbirds.” premiering on Netflix on May 23rd.

Rubio Long Snapping is, by far, the biggest and best resource for Long Snappers in the country. Rubio has been featured in the Washington Post, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the USA Today, Deadspin, Sports Illustrated and countless other publications.

Offering the best instruction and most exposure in the world, Rubio Long Snapping can help you to become the best snapper you can be!

In just 20 years, Chris Rubio, President and Owner of Rubio Long Snapping, has become the #1 Long Snapping instructor in the country and the go-to man when a college coach needs a Long Snapper. Colleges from across the country rely on “Rubio’s” word day in and day out on who the best Long Snappers are in the country. Rubio Long Snapping has assisted in over 1,850 Long Snappers earning full scholarships and preferred walk-on opportunities to major colleges and universities just for Long Snapping and many into the NFL as well.

102

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Where Are They Now? Tagged With: ,

Where are They Now featuring Cory Cheadle!

April 8, 2025 By

Today, we feature 2012 TOP 12er Cory Cheadle!

What is your occupation?
Airline Captain at SkyWest

Where do you live?
Denver, CO

Married? Kids?
Not yet

What is your fondest memory of your time playing college football?
Playing pool and sitting in the hot tub for special teams “group meetings” before practice

If you could give ONE bit of advice to the current Rubio Long Snappers, what would it be? Snapping PARENTS, what would it be?
Snappers: A major life lesson to me was life really isn’t all about what you know, it’s about who you know. Make connections, be reliable, be the best at whatever you do. You never know who’s watching.

Parents: Make sure this is what YOUR kid wants and NOT what you want for them.

When was the last time you snapped a ball and for what reason?
3-4 years ago on the beach. Had to prove to myself I still had it (I indeed did NOT still have it).

If you could go back and play football in college again, would you go to the same school or a different one? Why?
I more than likely would have picked a school that has an aviation program more tailored to student athletes.

Any regrets during college? Anything you wish you had done or hadn’t done?
Nothing that I can think of. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at college.

What tremendous thing have you been a part of or experienced since you graduated?
Upgrading to captain at my current airline. It’s been a lifelong dream of mine to be an airline captain and I would say to date, it’s my biggest and proudest accomplishment.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rubio Long Snapping is, by far, the biggest and best resource for Long Snappers in the country. Rubio has been featured in the Washington Post, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the USA Today, Deadspin, Sports Illustrated and countless other publications.

Offering the best instruction and most exposure in the world, Rubio Long Snapping can help you to become the best snapper you can be!

In just 20 years, Chris Rubio, President and Owner of Rubio Long Snapping, has become the #1 Long Snapping instructor in the country and the go-to man when a college coach needs a Long Snapper. Colleges from across the country rely on “Rubio’s” word day in and day out on who the best Long Snappers are in the country. Rubio Long Snapping has assisted in over 1,850 Long Snappers earning full scholarships and preferred walk-on opportunities to major colleges and universities just for Long Snapping and many into the NFL as well.

104

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Where Are They Now? Tagged With: ,

Where are They Now featuring Dr. Brendan Lopez!

April 1, 2025 By

Today we feature Dr. Brendan Lopez! Lopez is a 2007 TOP 12 Rubio Long Snapper….

What is your occupation?
General Dentist

Where do you live?
Seattle, WA

Married? Kids?
Married, one dog

What is your fondest memory of your time playing college football?
Early morning workouts, a few game winning moments and all the great food. 

If you could give ONE bit of advice to the current Rubio Long Snappers, what would it be? Snapping PARENTS, what would it be?
Long Snappers: Have fun, don’t take yourself too seriously and prepare to be ready.  

Parents: Enjoy all the moments, bring an umbrella chair to Vegas and maintain your flexibility.  

For snappers and parents: floss after meals, chew xylitol gum when floss isn’t available and invest in quality dentistry when necessary.  

When was the last time you snapped a ball and for what reason?
Monthly during group lessons because it’s fun. 

If you could go back and play football in college again, would you go to the same school or a different one? Why?
University of Washington was the right place for me but somewhere with a little more sunshine and less wind would have been great.  

Any regrets during college? Anything you wish you had done or hadn’t done?
I regret not taking those art classes that always conflicted with afternoon practice schedules.  

What tremendous thing have you been a part of or experienced since you graduated?
Walking or biking to work everyday for the last year. 

 

Rubio Long Snapping is, by far, the biggest and best resource for Long Snappers in the country. Rubio has been featured in the Washington Post, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the USA Today, Deadspin, Sports Illustrated and countless other publications.

Offering the best instruction and most exposure in the world, Rubio Long Snapping can help you to become the best snapper you can be!

In just 20 years, Chris Rubio, President and Owner of Rubio Long Snapping, has become the #1 Long Snapping instructor in the country and the go-to man when a college coach needs a Long Snapper. Colleges from across the country rely on “Rubio’s” word day in and day out on who the best Long Snappers are in the country. Rubio Long Snapping has assisted in over 1,850 Long Snappers earning full scholarships and preferred walk-on opportunities to major colleges and universities just for Long Snapping and many into the NFL as well.

141

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Where Are They Now? Tagged With: ,

Where are They Now featuring Zack Jenkins!

March 25, 2025 By

What is your occupation?
Inventory Control Specialist at Costco Wholesale

Where do you live?
North Bend, WA. About 45 minutes Southeast of Seattle

Married? Kids?
Girlfriend, she has a dog if you count that? I can barely take care of myself

What is your fondest memory of your time playing college football?
Having played during COVID times, it was extremely weird time obviously so getting back to sense of normalcy and getting able to be back on the field with the guys I came in with a freshman was awesome. Ended up going 11-1, losing in the quarterfinals to the eventual national champ in the closest game they had all year (still not over it).

If you could give ONE bit of advice to the current Rubio Long Snappers, what would it be? Snapping PARENTS, what would it be?

  • Snappers
    • DO THE SLOW-MO DILLS! They can be annoying and monotonous at times, but they are invaluable. They are easy to do inside or outside and take all of 15-20 minutes to do and can make all the difference in the world. I admittedly was kind of lazy with them my freshman year and I could tell since I was struggling by the end of the season (ended up being left off the playoff roster due to the inconsistency of my snaps the last three weeks of the season). Refocused and went back to the basics going into my sophomore year. Did slow-mo’s daily and “only” snapped a couple times a week. Never missed a game the remainder of my time, and ended up with the best compliment a HC could give. “The past 5 years, we never really had to even think about punts/FGS”.
  • Parents
    • Be supportive and don’t make it bigger than it needs to be. More often than not, your son/daughter (shout out Kalyn) knows what to do and how to do it. 99.99% of the time, there will be more snaps and how they snap the next ball is most important. Confidence is massive with snapping and if you can help build your child’s confidence it can be massive for the snaps.

When was the last time you snapped a ball and for what reason?
November of this past year. Helping coach special teams at a local High School and the first day I snapped with the snappers to in a sense prove that I knew what I was talking about. I ended up snapping a few balls each time I was there helping out because it seemed to make the kids I was working with snap better.

If you could go back and play football in college again, would you go to the same school or a different one? Why?
I’m not entirely sure honestly. I absolutely love and still love Linfield, both of my parents went there, and my brother ended up getting his degree from there as well. The relationships I have from there that I will have the rest of my life couldn’t have come from anywhere else and I don’t think I would trade it for anything. On the other hand, I started snapping very late and didn’t attend my first Rubio camp until I was already a junior in high school and it would’ve been very cool to have been able to compete at the highest level possible.

Any regrets during college? Anything you wish you had done or hadn’t done?
Sometimes I would get so caught up in football, that I would forget to take a sec and “take it all in”. My first 4 years were fantastic and you hear it all the time, but it really does feel like the blink of an eye. COVID obviously didn’t help and it threw everything off. We went 394 days (it was on the walls of our weight room) between losing in 3OT in the playoffs and our next game. So in a way, it kinda allowed me to take inventory and be able to go into my 5th year with the perspective of making sure I take it all in.

What tremendous thing have you been a part of or experienced since you graduated?

  • Personally
    • Being able to relatively seamlessly transition into “the real world” with a job, bills, and supporting pretty much fully supporting myself within a few months of graduating
  • Professionally
    • Was able to manage doing interviews and job applications while in my 5th I wasn’t technically graduated since I was “accidentally” one credit short of graduating after my senior year, but it was COVID year so we didn’t play any games at all. So I had to come back to take one class in order to play my final season. I had to manage practice, meetings, and lifts, while I was doing interviews throughout the week whether it was in person or zoom interviews.

 

Rubio Long Snapping is, by far, the biggest and best resource for Long Snappers in the country. Rubio has been featured in the Washington Post, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the USA Today, Deadspin, Sports Illustrated and countless other publications.

Offering the best instruction and most exposure in the world, Rubio Long Snapping can help you to become the best snapper you can be!

In just 20 years, Chris Rubio, President and Owner of Rubio Long Snapping, has become the #1 Long Snapping instructor in the country and the go-to man when a college coach needs a Long Snapper. Colleges from across the country rely on “Rubio’s” word day in and day out on who the best Long Snappers are in the country. Rubio Long Snapping has assisted in over 1,850 Long Snappers earning full scholarships and preferred walk-on opportunities to major colleges and universities just for Long Snapping and many into the NFL as well.

110

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Where Are They Now? Tagged With: ,

Where Are They Now featuring Jonathan Den Bleyker!

March 18, 2025 By

Today we feature #1 for 2016 Jonathan Den Bleyker!

What is your occupation?
Production Control Scheduler at SpaceX. I’m a part of the team that oversees the precision tube fabrication for the Falcon 9 launch vehicle.

Where do you live?
Los Angeles, California

Married? Kids?
Recently engaged to my awesome partner of 5 years. No kids yet, but definitely planning on it some day.

What is your fondest memory of your time playing college football?
My fondest memory is less so an individual experience, but the experience itself. I got to play in stadiums that I dreamed about playing in as a kid, learn from prominent coaches, and be a part of a great group of teammates for four years.

If you could give ONE bit of advice to the current Rubio Long Snappers, what would it be? Snapping PARENTS, what would it be?
My one piece of advice for current Rubio Long Snappers would be to enjoy the experience. There will be a day where you will no longer be a part of a football program and you should try your best to live in the moment. Be where your feet are!

For the parents, I would say to be as supportive as you can be of your snapper; but you shouldn’t be the driver of this journey. Allow your child to lead and put in what they want to gain from the experience.

When was the last time you snapped a ball and for what reason?
The last time I snapped a ball was about a year ago when I was teaching my fiancée how to snap (she has a great spiral at 10 yards!).

If you could go back and play football in college again, would you go to the same school or a different one? Why?
I would no question go to UCLA if I could do it all over again. I had the opportunity to learn from so many great coaches and educators who I feel helped shape the path I’m on today. I made lifelong friends and it’s where I met my fiancée. Attending UCLA was a great experience and I’m incredibly grateful for everyone who helped me get there.

Any regrets during college? Anything you wish you had done or hadn’t done?
I really don’t believe I have any regrets from college. I’m very happy with the journey I’m on and I feel that any highs or lows from college have helped forge the path I’m on right now.

What tremendous thing have you been a part of or experienced since you graduated?
There are two major ones that I can think of:

1). Becoming an uncle to an absolutely adorable niece.

2). Being a part of SpaceX’s last two years where we broke launch records and I had the opportunity to serve as the Orbital Welding Lead for an awesome team.

Rubio Long Snapping is, by far, the biggest and best resource for Long Snappers in the country. Rubio has been featured in the Washington Post, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the USA Today, Deadspin, Sports Illustrated and countless other publications.

Offering the best instruction and most exposure in the world, Rubio Long Snapping can help you to become the best snapper you can be!

In just 20 years, Chris Rubio, President and Owner of Rubio Long Snapping, has become the #1 Long Snapping instructor in the country and the go-to man when a college coach needs a Long Snapper. Colleges from across the country rely on “Rubio’s” word day in and day out on who the best Long Snappers are in the country. Rubio Long Snapping has assisted in over 1,850 Long Snappers earning full scholarships and preferred walk-on opportunities to major colleges and universities just for Long Snapping and many into the NFL as well.

106

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Where Are They Now? Tagged With: ,

Where Are They Now featuring Peyton Yanagi!!!!

March 11, 2025 By

What is your occupation?
I am a College Football Coach. I am currently the Special Teams Quality Control with Army Football.

Where do you live?
West Point, NY

Married? Kids?
Recently Engaged. No kids yet.

What is your fondest memory of your time playing college football?
I think the fondest memory I have of college football was when we won the Rose Bowl in 2020. The atmosphere was unique, and the game met all expectations. The bowl activities were some of the best experiences and the prep for that game was a ton of fun since it was only the football players around before we traveled down to the bowl site. We were able to bond with one another while preparing for one of the biggest games of the year.

If you could give ONE bit of advice to the current Rubio Long Snappers, what would it be? Snapping PARENTS, what would it be?
One piece of advice I’d give to current Rubio Long Snappers is that patience is a very key trait to have. In the recruiting process, things don’t always happen as quickly as you want. Many schools will take specialist recruiting through May. The right school for you will come to you at some point. Trust the process and everything will work itself out!

For parents, the biggest piece of advice I have for you is to let your child grow independently and not hold their hand at every step. As a coach, I do the best I can to make sure the players are taken care of to the best of my abilities. On the flip side of that, there are things that they need to take care of on their own. Whether that is waking up on time to get to football activities, school, keeping their grades up, etc. I want someone who I can trust to show up on time and take care of their business. They will walk into college as adults and will be treated as such until they prove otherwise.

When was the last time you snapped a ball and for what reason?
I most recently snapped yesterday. I like to show the snappers I work with through live demonstrations of what I’m seeing and the differences in what they are doing versus what they should be doing.

If you could go back and play football in college again, would you go to the same school or a different one? Why?
I would ultimately go to the same College if I had to do it again. The University of Oregon was a special place to be and we won a ton of games while I was there. The memories of winning two Pac-12 Championships and a Rose Bowl while also being able to make connections with some of my coaches who ultimately ended up hiring me right out of college were truly a dream come true.

Any regrets during college? Anything you wish you had done or hadn’t done?
No regrets. Everything I did had a reason and has led me to where and who I am today.

What tremendous thing have you been a part of or experienced since you graduated?
I was named the Special Teams Coordinator at the University of Nevada for the 2023 season. Being hired at that time, I was the youngest Full-Time Assistant Coach in the country at the age of 23. Our Special Teams unit performed well and ranked 9th in Punt Return Average, 39th in Punt Coverage, and 40th in Kickoff Coverage.

This past season I was a part of the Army Football team that went 12-2 and won the AAC Championship in our inaugural season in the conference. Along with the season we had, I was able to participate in the Bill Walsh Diversity Fellowship with the Las Vegas Raiders for OTA’s and Minicamp. The team’s snapper got sick one day and I was lucky enough to snap and ensure that the Kicker and Punter were able to get some work in that day with a full operation.

 

Rubio Long Snapping is, by far, the biggest and best resource for Long Snappers in the country. Rubio has been featured in the Washington Post, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the USA Today, Deadspin, Sports Illustrated and countless other publications.

Offering the best instruction and most exposure in the world, Rubio Long Snapping can help you to become the best snapper you can be!

In just 20 years, Chris Rubio, President and Owner of Rubio Long Snapping, has become the #1 Long Snapping instructor in the country and the go-to man when a college coach needs a Long Snapper. Colleges from across the country rely on “Rubio’s” word day in and day out on who the best Long Snappers are in the country. Rubio Long Snapping has assisted in over 1,850 Long Snappers earning full scholarships and preferred walk-on opportunities to major colleges and universities just for Long Snapping and many into the NFL as well.

83

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Where Are They Now? Tagged With: ,

Where Are They Now featuring John Bergeron!

March 4, 2025 By

What is your occupation?
-Student in Law School

Where do you live?
-Gainesville, FL (for school); Doral, FL (home)

Married? Kids?
Proposing soon, no kids

What is your fondest memory of your time playing college football?
-October 2022 Upenn homecoming game against Yale. The specialist came out of the locker room for half time and as we’re warming up Fossil Free Penn protestors stormed the field and protested on the field halting the game for more than an hour. Pretty funny and unique experience.

-From my time at Ole Miss: Outback Bowl in Kiffin’s first year, Ole Miss @ LSU (all of my HS friends were in attendance), and the overall culture there – it was electric, everyone was bought in and Kiffin’s staff was amazing.

If you could give ONE bit of advice to the current Rubio Long Snappers, what would it be? Snapping PARENTS, what would it be?
-Advice for current Rubio Long Snappers: Trust The Process! Put in the Work and everything else will fall into place, don’t waste time stressing over things you can’t control, and most importantly prioritize academics. Strong academics will open so many doors for you even in the football world. Always thank your parents and live everyday like it’s a gift – because it is.

-Advice for Parents: Provide a guiding hand but don’t helicopter. I was blessed with amazing parents so I don’t have the necessary wisdom to provide much advice here lol.

When was the last time you snapped a ball and for what reason?
-Last month, a party trick

If you could go back and play football in college again, would you go to the same school or a different one? Why?
-I’d follow the exact same path because it led me to where I am today.

Any regrets during college? Anything you wish you had done or hadn’t done?
– Not really, my biggest regret is taking on the amount of debt I did for undergrad, but it helped me get a full ride for law school so I’m fine with it now.

What tremendous thing have you been a part of or experienced since you graduated?
-Attending Law School / preparing for the next phase of my life and getting my soon to be fiancé moved in with me.

 

 

Rubio Long Snapping is, by far, the biggest and best resource for Long Snappers in the country. Rubio has been featured in the Washington Post, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the USA Today, Deadspin, Sports Illustrated and countless other publications.

Offering the best instruction and most exposure in the world, Rubio Long Snapping can help you to become the best snapper you can be!

In just 20 years, Chris Rubio, President and Owner of Rubio Long Snapping, has become the #1 Long Snapping instructor in the country and the go-to man when a college coach needs a Long Snapper. Colleges from across the country rely on “Rubio’s” word day in and day out on who the best Long Snappers are in the country. Rubio Long Snapping has assisted in over 1,850 Long Snappers earning full scholarships and preferred walk-on opportunities to major colleges and universities just for Long Snapping and many into the NFL as well.

226

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Where Are They Now? Tagged With: ,

Where Are They Now featuring JR Carr!

February 25, 2025 By

JR Carr is a TOP 12 Rubio Long Snapper from the Class of 2009!

What is your occupation?
Digital Marketing Agency Partner

Where do you live?
Encinitas, CA

Married? Kids?
Negative

What is your fondest memory of your time playing college football?
There are so many when looking back, that being said I’ll provide one that is top-of-mind some may not think would be.We would see movies on Friday nights before games at the theatres. As a kid, my dad had worked for USC Football, and they would do the same. He let me tag along and go to the movies, then later the team hotel. As a little kid I remember idolizing the guys who I got to go see a movie with (the players), then hop on the bus with back to the team hotel.In college, each time we walked out of the movie theatres, and got onto the bus I got that same feeling of being so wildly fortunate. It was a great moment of weekly reflection to enjoy the little things with teammates, support staff, coaches, family, etc.

If you could give ONE bit of advice to the current Rubio Long Snappers, what would it be? Snapping PARENTS, what would it be?
Current Rubio Long Snappers: There will be day where no one wants you on their team anymore. Meaning this moment you have is fleeting faster than you can ever imagine. Don’t get to high, don’t get too low, and embrace the ebbs and flows – You’ll look back loving both the good and bad the same.
Snapping PARENTS: Give space. Do you have to be at every lesson? Does your kid ever want to go alone or drive themselves? What I’m getting at is that your child’s inherent desire to want “this” must be greater than yours. Allow them to navigate a bit more solo, so when the time comes that they are alone, you have the utmost confidence they are where they want to be for their reasons.

When was the last time you snapped a ball and for what reason?
About a year ago – Soley for ego purposes to show friends I still had it.

If you could go back and play football in college again, would you go to the same school or a different one? Why?
100% going back to Tennessee again. Rubio always made a great point that the season is a few months long – you have to think about where you are living the rest of the year, and Knoxville is a great city.

Any regrets during college? Anything you wish you had done or hadn’t done?
No regrets – Probably a few late nights into early morning workouts my body wishes I did not do, but really attempted to be the best student athlete I could be.

What tremendous thing have you been a part of or experienced since you graduated?
Great question. When covid hit I used it as the opportunity while starting my current business to move to the Dominican Republic for a few years. It was amazing. DR is in EST and I worked PST so every morning I had ~2-3 hours of uninterrupted surfing in warm water. The people, the culture, all of it was incredibly special to be immersed in.

Rubio Long Snapping is, by far, the biggest and best resource for Long Snappers in the country. Rubio has been featured in the Washington Post, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the USA Today, Deadspin, Sports Illustrated and countless other publications.

Offering the best instruction and most exposure in the world, Rubio Long Snapping can help you to become the best snapper you can be!

In just 20 years, Chris Rubio, President and Owner of Rubio Long Snapping, has become the #1 Long Snapping instructor in the country and the go-to man when a college coach needs a Long Snapper. Colleges from across the country rely on “Rubio’s” word day in and day out on who the best Long Snappers are in the country. Rubio Long Snapping has assisted in over 1,850 Long Snappers earning full scholarships and preferred walk-on opportunities to major colleges and universities just for Long Snapping and many into the NFL as well.

141

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Where Are They Now? Tagged With: , ,

Where Are They Now featuring Joe Lang!

February 19, 2025 By

Today we are featuring Joe Lang from the Rubio Long Snapping class of 2014!

What is your occupation?

I work as a Financial Business Intelligence Analyst at a wealth management firm

 

Where do you live?

I live in Pheonix Arizona

 

Married? Kids? 

I am married and hope to have kids someday

 

What is your fondest memory of your time playing college football? 

Being around all of my teammates in the offseason and on away game road trips is what I remember most, we also got the chance to play at some historic venues, ones I dreamed of playing at as a kid.

 

If you could give ONE bit of advice to the current Rubio Long Snappers, what would it be? Snapping PARENTS, what would it be?

My piece of advice to snappers is to not let anyone put you in a box, play as many sports, join as many clubs and gather as many experiences as possible. High school and college only happen once.

 

For parents, I would mirror what I said above, if you let your kid explore as many avenues as possible it will only make them a better snapper and a more rounded person.

 

When was the last time you snapped a ball and for what reason?

My brother and I snapped in a lesson recently to remind everyone who the kings were. (sore for a week)

 

If you could go back and play football in college again, would you go to the same school or a different one? Why?

I would go to the same schools, Washington state was my childhood dream school because of my dad working there as a strength coach. And after transferring to UNLV I fell in love with the rebels and Las Vegas. That program really is on the rise too.

 

Any regrets during college? Anything you wish you had done or hadn’t done? 

I do regret not continuing to play another position even if it was only on scout team. I got to play tight end and full back a bit at WSU and should have continued that path.

 

What tremendous thing have you been a part of or experienced since you graduated?

That is a tough question, I can’t pin point one specific experience but since I have graduated I have moved to 3 different states, gone to grad school and gotten married. Every step of the way since college I have been able to experience so much, I am going to cop out and say the entire ride has been tremendous.

 

 

Rubio Long Snapping is, by far, the biggest and best resource for Long Snappers in the country. Rubio has been featured in the Washington Post, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the USA Today, Deadspin, Sports Illustrated and countless other publications.

Offering the best instruction and most exposure in the world, Rubio Long Snapping can help you to become the best snapper you can be!

In just 20 years, Chris Rubio, President and Owner of Rubio Long Snapping, has become the #1 Long Snapping instructor in the country and the go-to man when a college coach needs a Long Snapper. Colleges from across the country rely on “Rubio’s” word day in and day out on who the best Long Snappers are in the country. Rubio Long Snapping has assisted in over 1,850 Long Snappers earning full scholarships and preferred walk-on opportunities to major colleges and universities just for Long Snapping and many into the NFL as well.

222

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Where Are They Now? Tagged With: ,

Where Are They Now Featuring Kyle Varnell!

February 10, 2025 By

Kyle Varnell has been with Rubio Long Snapping since 2015!

What is your occupation?

Sales executive at something inked selling merchandise

Where do you live?

Nashville, TN

Married? Kids? 

NOPE!

What is your fondest memory of your time playing college football? 

The locker room fun and hanging with the guys on trips.

If you could give ONE bit of advice to the current Rubio Long Snappers, what would it be? Snapping PARENTS, what would it be?

Trust the process, it is so frustrating at times but it is coming. You get out what you put in.

Parents enjoy this time, make friends and remember rubio wants everyone to succeed.

When was the last time you snapped a ball and for what reason?

Last week in a lesson to prove I still got it.

If you could go back and play football in college again, would you go to the same school or a different one? Why?

I mean knowing me I would go sec big time. Play in big games and get the full college experience.

Any regrets during college? Anything you wish you had done or hadn’t done? 

None in college, I loved every second of it.

What tremendous thing have you been a part of or experienced since you graduated?

Moving to Nashville to be closer to family and travel around to amazing events for my job and meet awesome people!

Rubio Long Snapping is, by far, the biggest and best resource for Long Snappers in the country. Rubio has been featured in the Washington Post, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the USA Today, Deadspin, Sports Illustrated and countless other publications.

Offering the best instruction and most exposure in the world, Rubio Long Snapping can help you to become the best snapper you can be!

In just 20 years, Chris Rubio, President and Owner of Rubio Long Snapping, has become the #1 Long Snapping instructor in the country and the go-to man when a college coach needs a Long Snapper. Colleges from across the country rely on “Rubio’s” word day in and day out on who the best Long Snappers are in the country. Rubio Long Snapping has assisted in over 1,850 Long Snappers earning full scholarships and preferred walk-on opportunities to major colleges and universities just for Long Snapping and many into the NFL as well.

147

Filed Under: Uncategorized, Where Are They Now? Tagged With: ,

Where Are They Now Featuring Corey Adams!!!!

February 5, 2025 By

Corey has been with Rubio Long Snapping since 2006 and was the top Long Snapper in his class.

What is your occupation? Director of Accounting

Where do you live? Overland Park, KS

Married? Kids? Married (12 wonderful years), 3 daughters (9, 7, 5)

What is your fondest memory of your time playing college football? Reflecting on college there isn’t one memory that sticks out, rather just a collection of great memories and experiences that all blend together for an experience I wouldn’t trade for anything.

If you could give ONE bit of advice to the current Rubio Long Snappers, what would it be? Snapping PARENTS, what would it be? 

Current snappers: Don’t make long snapping your whole identity and just relax. Your time playing football is maybe 15% of your whole life, and you don’t want to be so locked in and rigid on one thing. Develop a personality, make some memories, and focus on being a good person.

Current parents: Spread out. Whether it is the recruiting process, speaking to instructors, coaches, teachers, etc., let your child take the lead on discussions and engagement. It will help them develop a personality, learn to be a functioning human being, and get comfortable with the uncomfortable. This will pay dividends throughout their life.

When was the last time you snapped a ball and for what reason? It was a few years ago, and I was giving a lesson. Was trying to explain how to hit the “4” follow through. Didn’t go so well, and now I follow the “those who can’t do, teach” and “do as I say, not as I do” mantras.

If you could go back and play football in college again, would you go to the same school or a different one? Why? From an experience standpoint, I would go to Kansas State again for sure. I loved the town, people, location, etc. HOWEVER, NIL is a variable my generation didn’t have to deal with, and hearing how much athletes are making, it would be hard to pass up opportunities that may more lucrative than others.   

Any regrets during college? Anything you wish you had done or hadn’t done? I wish I hadn’t rushed out as quickly as I did. I started as a true freshman and graduated in 3.5 years. I was so focused on trying to go pro and life after college, I kind of fast tracked anything. Looking back (especially with the landscape of college football today), would have loved to had a couple more years of school, getting to hangout with friends, working out, limited responsibilities, etc.

What tremendous thing have you been a part of or experienced since you graduated? Starting a family with my wife and watching our daughters grow over the years and see their development and accomplishments.

 

 

Rubio Long Snapping is, by far, the biggest and best resource for Long Snappers in the country. Rubio has been featured in the Washington Post, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the USA Today, Deadspin, Sports Illustrated and countless other publications.

Offering the best instruction and most exposure in the world, Rubio Long Snapping can help you to become the best snapper you can be!

In just 20 years, Chris Rubio, President and Owner of Rubio Long Snapping, has become the #1 Long Snapping instructor in the country and the go-to man when a college coach needs a Long Snapper. Colleges from across the country rely on “Rubio’s” word day in and day out on who the best Long Snappers are in the country. Rubio Long Snapping has assisted in over 1,850 Long Snappers earning full scholarships and preferred walk-on opportunities to major colleges and universities just for Long Snapping and many into the NFL as well.

 

177

Filed Under: Featured Posts, Where Are They Now? Tagged With: , ,

Where Are They Now? Sodie Orr

April 26, 2018 By

For the next installment of the Rubio Long Snapping Where Are They Now? series, we head to sunny Southern California to learn about Sodie Orr.

Sodie is a TOP 12 Long Snapper from the class of 2012 that was always a crowd favorite with his overflowing personality and his tendency to bring into song. Don’t believe me? Check out Sodie’s entry for a Rubio Long Snapping contest many moons ago….

https://youtu.be/Odzj5zhluOw

Sodie and his mom

Sodie went off to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo but realized that college football wasn’t for him in the long run. He had visions (or sounds) of music on his mind and he didn’t want let his musical dream fade so he ran with it! He has played under the name Sodie Orr, Sodie Aura and Wes James. Here we go…..

What is your occupation? I am currently a full time musician

Where do you live? I live in Carlsbad but am moving to the San Fernando Valley soon.

Married? Kids? No marriage and I ammmm NOT THE FATHER (yet, praise the heavens)

What is your fondest memory of your time playing college football? My fondest memory of playing college football is watching all the upperclassmen angrily look at me with jealousy in their eyes as they practiced while i sat on the sidelines for the last 2 hours of practice every day. Special teams was right after warm ups.

How come you no longer play football? Full time musician.

If you could give ONE bit of advice to the current Rubio Long Snappers, what would it be? If I could give a bit of advice to Rubio Long Snappers, it would be to really appreciate the camps and time with Rubio while you’re there. Football was cool, but being a part of the Rubio family and Long Snapping community meant more to me than anything I ever did in college. I learned a lot about life and how to be a better human as well as a better long Snapper.

If you could give ONE bit of advice to the current Rubio Long Snapping PARENTS, what would it be? My advice to the parents of Rubio Snappers would be to push your young man harder. Make sure he’s doing his drills daily, stretching, and that his grades are up. I’ve seen a lot of my friends lives change completely in the best ways from dedicating fully to the craft. Shoutout to my NFL homies I met at Rubio camps.

When was the last time you snapped a ball and for what reason? The last time I snapped a ball was a few months ago, on camera, to show Rubio I still sling pearls. Once a snapper always a snapper.

If you could go back and play football in college again, would you go to the same school or a different one? Why? If I HAD to go back to school again and play ball, I would want to go to a different school. I didn’t enjoy my program very much, and would have enjoyed the benefits of playing for a big time football oriented university. I also realized once I got there that I didn’t love football at all. If Long snapping was an Olympic sport I would have gone for gold… but I knew that football wasn’t my path, so I left and went for my dream of making music. And if you’re feeling that way, it’s okay. Stick it out as long as you can and give it a chance to come around. But if you know deep down it’s not for you once you’re in it, don’t be afraid to follow your heart and passion.

Chance the Rapper with Sodie Aura (Sodie Orr)!

Any regrets during college? Anything you wish you had done or hadn’t done? I don’t have too many regrets about my college experience. Since my heart wasn’t in football, I do feel that I missed out on a lot of the things that were going on while I was traveling for away games etc. But I am and will always be grateful I got there through Rubio’s teachings and my own hard work.

What tremendous thing have you been a part of or experienced since you graduated? I did not graduate… instead I started writing music and decided to do a showcase in LA, where an A&R from Atlantic Records saw me and wanted to sign me on the spot. Since then, i have recorded at multiple Atlantic Records studios, opened for artists such as Curren$y, Ab Soul, Chance the Rapper, Shwayze, and more. I interned for rapper Too $hort for a year at his complex in LA, as well as producer legend Rodney Jerkins (aka Darkchild). And I believe that’s all just the tip of the iceberg. As long as I maintain BALANCE in my life (work hard/ maintain self care, grind/ get proper rest), EXTEND and network with the contacts I’ve made in the industry and beyond, and FOLLOW THROUGH on my commitments and goals… anything is possible.

Neil Diamond with Wes James (Sodie Orr)!!!!

The poster you see above was given to me by Sodie Orr. It is when he was a special guest of Neil Diamond (if you don’t know who the legend Neil Diamond, you have some severe issues) and opened for him in San Diego. I hang it proudly where I do lessons and have it right next to where all the Long Snappers snap the ball so they can see it and realize that life is not all about Long Snapping and a person has to be truly well rounded to succeed. This poster is truly one of my most valued possessions I own. Thank you Sodie!

Rubio Long Snapping is, by far, the biggest and best resource for Long Snappers in the country. Rubio has been featured in the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the USA Today, Deadspin and countless other publications.

Offering the best instruction and most exposure in the world, Rubio Long Snapping can help you to become the best snapper you can be!

In just 12 years, Chris Rubio, President and Owner of Rubio Long Snapping, has become the #1 Long Snapping instructor in the country and the go-to man when a college coach needs a Long Snapper. Colleges from across the country rely on “Rubio’s” word day in and day out on who the best Long Snappers are in the country. Rubio Long Snapping has assisted in over 1,000 Long Snappers earning full scholarships and preferred walk-on opportunities to major colleges and universities just for Long Snapping and many into the NFL as well.

1328

Filed Under: Article Archives, Featured Posts, Where Are They Now? Tagged With: , , , , , ,