The importance of special teams in football cannot be overstated, as it is often a direct reflection of a team’s culture and work ethic. Michigan Tech Huskies special teams coordinator Phil Milbrath understands this concept well and emphasizes the significance of special teams in shaping a team’s attitude, effort, and overall performance on the field. He believes that special teams require players who are fundamentally sound and willing to put in the hard work necessary to succeed.
Milbrath looks for specific qualities in his players, such as blocking, tackling, and pursuit, which are essential for success on special teams. He values players who are committed to the team’s culture and understand the importance of their role in controlling field position and creating scoring opportunities for the offense. Special teams serve as the third phase of the game, and every player on the team is expected to contribute in some capacity.
One standout player on the Michigan Tech special teams unit is senior punter Brenden Lach, who transitioned from wide receiver to punter and earned All-America Honorable Mention honors last season. Lach’s ability to flip the field with his punting skills has been instrumental in the team’s success. He also plays a crucial role as the holder for field goals and extra points, providing support to freshman kicker Avery Kucharski, who won the starting job this season.
Kucharski, a talented kicker with a background in soccer and football, brings confidence and consistency to the kicking game. With the guidance of experienced players like Lach and senior long snapper Chandler Ward, Kucharski is poised to make a significant impact on the team’s special teams unit. Ward’s leadership and accountability help ensure that the kicking game operates smoothly and effectively.
In addition to Lach and Kucharski, several other key players contribute to Michigan Tech’s special teams success, including sophomore running back Jake Rueff, sophomore defensive back Junyoung Chung, senior defensive back Hunter Buechel, senior inside linebacker Owen Watson, and senior running back Patrick Castner. These players bring experience, communication skills, and a strong work ethic to the special teams unit, setting a positive example for younger players.
Chung, in particular, is a player to watch this season, as he has recovered from a season-ending injury and is eager to make an impact on special teams. His speed, athleticism, and physicality make him a valuable asset in both coverage and return situations. Milbrath is confident that Chung’s dedication to rehabilitating his body and improving his skills will pay off on the field.
As the Huskies prepare to face tough opponents like Bemidji State, Milbrath emphasizes the importance of measuring up against top-quality teams and maintaining a competitive attitude. The team’s commitment to excellence and willingness to work together on special teams will be crucial in achieving success on the field. With a talented group of players and a strong emphasis on teamwork and communication, Michigan Tech’s special teams unit is poised for a successful season.
