Chandler Catanzaro was any Clemson fan’s favorite person on New Year’s Eve this past year with making the game winning kick against LSU. His name is still spoken with admiration by being able to perform under pressure and clench another ACC win over the SEC. But unknowingly to many people, this senior from Greenville, SC, has a lot more to him and is honestly a really great guy. Her Campus had the opportunity to get to know him a little better, and we all definitely have more of an appreciation for this humble athlete.
Name: Chandler Catanzaro
Major: Biological Sciences
Hometown: Greenville, SC
Year: Senior
Favorite part about Clemson in the spring?
- I love walking on library bridge and seeing the fountains in the reflection pond.
What were you thinking before the kick against LSU?
- I kept thinking that I had to trust in myself. I knew that I had worked hard, practiced hard, and developed a good technique. When it came down to it, I knew I could do it…I just had to get it done. I had to have no fear. Fear keeps you from getting your goal accomplished. My teammates did a great job of putting me in position for that kick, and I knew I couldn’t let them down.
Was Clemson an easy decision for you?
- Coming out of high school, I was deciding between Furman and Clemson. Furman is a great school, and they had offered me a scholarship. It was a tough decision, but I kept praying about it and I felt God continued to guide me towards Clemson. I know I was meant to go here, and I don’t have the slightest regret.
Favorite part about being an athlete at Clemson?
- Having the opportunity to leave a legacy here and to be a part of something bigger than yourself is just awesome. Every athlete at Clemson gets that chance, and I am blessed to be in that position.
Most embarrassing moment at Clemson?
- Missing an extra point against Ball State last year.
Favorite campus spot?
- Death Valley is my favorite spot. It’s where my first and most vivid memories of Clemson come from. That stadium has been such a huge part of my life.
Favorite Clemson restaurant?
- Tokyo
Any secret talents?
- Guitar and Snapchat extraordinaire
Celebrity crush?
- Marissa Miller
Favorite TV Show?
- Prison Break
Who is your idol?
- My mom and dad. They’ve set a tremendous example for me in every part of life. They love me unconditionally and have supported me always.
What is most important to you in life?
- My relationship with God
Celebrity wife?
- Jennifer Aniston
If you were a fruit, which would you be?
- Pineapple. I’m rough on the outside, but sweet on the inside.
Ideal first date?
- A nice, sit-down dinner in downtown Greenville and walking around Falls Park.
Favorite high school memory?
- Making the game winning header in the SC Soccer State Championship game against Lincoln High School my sophomore year.
Plans after Clemson?
– If given the opportunity, my dream is to kick in the NFL someday. If that doesn’t work out, I will pursue med school. This summer, I’ll be working hard on the football field and taking the MCAT.
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