(Photo by Gregory Campbell)
Isaac Owusu
Ticats.ca
They’ve only been practicing together for three days, but the Tiger-Cats kicking duo of Justin Medlock and Brett Lauther are quick developing a strong relationship.
When they’re not alternating kicking duties, they are often seen on the sideline taking about strategy or sharing a laugh.
“We’ve gotten to know each other pretty quickly, because were around each other all day,” Lauther said.
“We’re definitely jokesters, we’re laughing all the time. We try keep it mostly football though,” he added.
Medlock, the veteran heading into his fourth CFL season, enjoys the presence of the second year kicker, who completed six of his 10 attempted field goals in 2013.
“He’s got a good leg, and a good head on his shoulders, so we have fun,” he said.
Medlock rejoins the Hamilton Tiger-Cats as the expected starter for the 2014 season while Lauther will continue his development.
“I look at every day as an opportunity to get better. I always tell Brett to start kicking before me, so it wakes me up sometimes like ‘ah, I have to get going today’,” Medlock said.
Medlock returns to the CFL after a two-year absence spent in the NFL, playing for the Carolina Panthers in 2013 and he was a member of the Oakland Raiders for their 2013 training camp. Prior to his NFL run, he had a historic 2011 season with the Ticats.
He set a team record making 49 of his 55 field goals attempts, good for 89.1% which included a longest of 57 yards, with four singles scored. He also boasted a 41.6 punting average on 119 attempts, with two singles. His work earned him the team’s Most Outstanding Special Teams player award.
“We had good chemistry then. We had a good snap and good hold. All I had to do was do my job. I was focused and got myself in a groove. That’s what it comes down to, getting your snap and hold right.”
With Medlock responsible for punts, kickoffs and extra points, all of the kicking duties are taken care of.
“He’s the guy right now so I’m just helping him as I can, while trying to keep developing and learning every day,” said Lauther.
“I’m just going to try to push him in practice to be great, and I’m still going to be working on myself and be ready. — He’s been around the block with the NFL and CFL, so I’m just trying to learn from him,” he added.
