Rising Stars in the Specialist Ranks
The 2026 edition of Orange County’s specialist rankings has turned heads across the nation, as a handful of high school kickers, punters and long snappers post numbers that rival college performers.
Peter Batsaras of Cypress High School holds the No. 2 spot nationally among senior kickers and boasts a school‑record 53‑yard field goal that has drawn praise from recruiters.
Jerry Shifman, a sophomore at Mater Dei, is already the nation’s No. 1 kicker for the Class of 2028 and has secured verbal offers from LSU, SMU and Cincinnati, signaling a bright future.
Caleb Sylvia from Mission Viejo added another layer of excitement by winning a prestigious field‑goal competition and landing the No. 2 position among California seniors, a testament to his accuracy under pressure.
Star Thomas III of Orange High School proved his versatility by averaging 50 yards per punt while also serving as a dual‑threat quarterback, showcasing a rare blend of arm strength and leg power.
Long‑snap specialist Kyle Gerrish, also from Mission Viejo, cracked the national top five and attracted scholarship interest from San Diego State, the University of Arizona and the Air Force Academy.
Asher Youderian of Aliso Niguel demonstrated consistency, converting 7 of 9 field goals and perfecting all 41 extra points last season, a reliability that coaches value highly.
Gauge Cook at Santa Margarita Catholic climbed to No. 9 nationally among kickers and No. 7 among punters for the Class of 2028, underscoring his dual‑threat capabilities.
Jacob Molina from Rancho Alamitos contributed a flawless extra‑point slate of 25 and a 40‑yard field goal, cementing his reputation as a clutch performer.
William Powers of JSerra earned the No. 13 spot nationally as a long snapper and captured a specialist camp competition, a feat that often translates into early college playing time.
Ethan Miller of San Clemente posted a 2025 season where he made 9 of 12 field goals and 42 of 46 extra points, numbers that have kept him on the radar of several Pac‑12 programs.
What’s Next for These Specialists?
Finally, Aiden Wimberly of Beckman High School delivered a game‑changing 35‑yard field goal in the CIF‑SS Division 8 final, forcing overtime and highlighting the dramatic impact specialists can have on championship outcomes.