Johnson C Smith

Lukasz Smolen’s life story is a remarkable testament to hard work, perseverance, and the pursuit of dreams. Born in Poland, Lukasz faced many challenges early in life. He left school at 18, entering adulthood with few resources but a relentless drive to build a better life for himself and his family. Initially, he worked a 9-to-5 job, pushing through long, grueling hours just to make ends meet. His days were spent balancing multiple tasks, and his nights were often spent honing his skills as a mechanic, a trade he took up to secure steady income.

Despite his hardworking nature, life wasn’t easy. Lukasz is a family person and has always made sure his loved ones were taken care of. He has always been there to support his family, stress, and the overwhelming demands of everyday life made each day a challenge. Yet, his commitment to improving his situation never wavered. Lukasz would often talk about how his love for football kept him going—more than just a sport, it was a passion that brought him hope. His role as a kicker for the Wembley Stallions allowed him a small escape from the pressures of life. On the field, he felt free, focused, and driven—qualities that would ultimately shape his future.

But things weren’t always easy on the field either. Playing for the Stallions U-18, Lukasz faced immense pressure, not just to perform well but to prove himself. As an immigrant with limited resources, the pressure to succeed was overwhelming. Yet, it was in these moments of adversity that Lukasz truly showed his resilience. He would stay after practice, kick extra field goals, and work tirelessly to refine his technique. His hard work began to pay off, as his performance caught the attention of coaches and scouts.

In a twist of fate that would change his life forever, Lukasz caught the eye of the United Kicking Academy, a prestigious program that trains some of the most talented kickers in the world. Joining United Kicking marked the beginning of a dramatic transformation in Lukasz’s life. With access to better coaching, resources, and a supportive community, his skills improved rapidly. He was no longer just a hopeful player; he was a rising star. Within 12 months, his hard work and dedication earned him a full scholarship to Johnson C. Smith University, a dream come true for a young man who had once struggled just to make ends meet.

Lukasz’s story is one of incredible transformation. From a mechanic working long hours in a foreign country to becoming a full-scholarship athlete at a prestigious university, his journey shows the power of persistence, sacrifice, and unwavering belief in oneself. His success was not handed to him; it was earned through sweat, determination, and the belief that no matter how hard life gets, the future is always worth fighting for. Lukasz Smolen’s life has been a series of incredible steps, each one more impressive than the last, and his journey is far from over.

"I joined United Kicking looking to pursue a dream. What I got instead was everything I asked for and more. Friends, Brothers and a family. I love being part of United Kicking and recommend any young kicker,punter or snapper to jump in and join the best thing that happened to me."- Lukasz Smolen