Junior punter Justin Cassini officially committed to continue his football and academic career at the University of Rochester; however, this moment took much thought and determination.
Cassini’s commitment to the Division III football team at the University of Rochester isn’t just about continuing his football career, it’s about embracing an elite academic environment as the #32 business school and #44 overall academic ranking. He had his mind set on the university for a long time, and after visiting he realized that was the place he wished to be for the next four years. “I felt like I was at home and there was nowhere else I wanted to be…I wanted to be set up for the future and graduate with the best degree. Rochester fits me,” he said.
His football journey started at 11 years old. Originally, Cassini dreamt of becoming a quarterback, but he realized that wasn’t the best position for him and switched to linebacker. Due to a fractured collarbone and the discovery of a medical condition, Cassini’s path changed. Because of the deficiencies in his collarbone, hitting became unsafe and Cassini gave up football for a year. Upon his return, he realized that he could punt, and that he had finally found the right position for him.
“Ever since summer going into sophomore year, my mind has been on punting and showing what I can do with my legs on the football field,” Cassini said.
After many ups and downs in his career, Cassini continued to stay motivated due to his family’s support. By never allowing him to give up and transfer, even after being benched his sophomore year, his family guided him to stay focused and to keep working hard. “My family wouldn’t let me quit and it was the best thing that happened,” he said.
His athletic journey also included some mental health challenges. By keeping both his academics and athletics to the highest levels, Cassini endured challenges trying to balance all his responsibilities. In the end, these mental health struggles he faced helped shape him into more than just a football player. “Hypnotherapy and visualization have helped me stay strong… Being a student-athlete in AP classes is hard, but I always get things done. I don’t let myself fall behind,” he said.
As he looks ahead, Cassini’s goals are high, pushing himself to work harder and continue to improve. “I want to break records. I want to set numerous punting and kicking records as I want to show them how much it means to me for giving me this opportunity… being present in the classroom, on the field, in the weight room and in the field room are my biggest goals to achieve.”
With a powerful leg, sharp focus, a good support system and relentless drive, Cassini is ready to make an impact alongside his fellow Yellowjackets at the University of Rochester and confidently take on this new chapter of his life to not only chase records but to build a legacy.
Cassini announces his commitment to the University of Rochester May 17, and takes the next step in his football journey. His decision was made after being drawn to the university’s culture, academics and the team’s bond. (Photo/ @adamflicks)
(Photo/ @adamflicks)
