First Posted: 4/30/2015
EXETER — His work isn’t done yet, but he has a roster spot.
Wyoming Area kicker/punter A.J. Lenkaitis announced he will be attending Temple University this fall to continue his football career. Lenkaitis has spent the past four seasons as Wyoming Area’s primary kicking specialist.
The Owls told Lenkaitis he will have a roster spot this fall, but must show this offseason that his leg is ready for the challenge.
“Temple was always the right fit for me, even if I took football out of the equation,” Lenkaitis said. “When I was down there for camp, everything was right about it.”
Lenkaitis finished his career at Wyoming Area 87-for-101 on extra points with three career field goals. He was also the primary punter for the Warriors, averaging 38 yards per punt over four years.
“I have the easy job,” he said. “People like coach (Fred) Marianacci that have had my back since day one. My grandfather and parents have been a big part of it.”
Lenkaitis has been the primary kicker for the Warriors since his freshman season. Whether it’s been punts, kick offs, extra points or field goals, Lenkaitis has been Wyoming Area’s ace.
Lenkaitis made his varsity debut in 2011 as a freshman. He averaged 39 yards per punt his sophomore season. As a junior, Lenkaitis averaged 36.8 yards and had a long of 75 yards against Scranton Prep in the opening game of the season.
Wyoming Area wasn’t in the position to score this past year as much as they were in Lenkaitis’ younger years. Lenkaitis finished 14-for-16 on PATs and made two field goals. In Lenkaitis’ freshman season, he hit 36-of-40 PATs, including a 38-yard field goal.
“He performed well, especially for someone who wasn’t a football player initially,” Wyoming Area head coach Randy Spencer said. “He has a very diverse skill set. When he goes away, aside from being a great student and a high character kid, he has great upside. Four years at any program like Temple gives him a great opportunity.”
Lenkaitis will be studying business with hopes of getting in a five-year MBA program upon graduation. He plans on attending law school after that. He is the son of Terri Forlenza and Tony Lenkaitis, West Pittston.
“I just really want to enjoy myself at Temple, regardless of what happens,” Lenkaitis said. “I want to go down there and compete.”
