As a prep star at Ames High School, Andy Kohler had no trouble rising to high expectations. His time thus far at Iowa State has been no different.

Kohler won back-to-back high jump titles for the Little Cyclones, clearing 7 feet in one of his victories. He became only the third Iowa athlete to clear that height in prep history.

This past track season Kohler continued to impress when he finished third overall in the Big 12 Conference outdoor meet.

But now, Kohler has other things on his mind, the most important being trying to work his way into the starting lineup on the football team.

Cyclone head coach Dan McCarney has noticed the effort.

“Andy is just a tremendous all-around athlete, and that is why we wanted him in our program,” McCarney said.

Kohler, in his second football season, is practicing at wide receiver after having played receiver and defensive back in high school.

“I am probably a better receiver than I am a free safety, in that I am not the fastest guy out there, and I can use my height a little bit better at wide receiver,” Kohler said.

Although Kohler is not currently finding any playing time, he’s been impressive in practice.

Last week he was named offensive scout team player of the week, which allowed him to travel with the team to Missouri.

Coming out of high school, Kohler had a large choice of colleges to choose from, but he feels he made the right decision to stay in his home town.

“I am extremely happy about playing at home. My parents get to watch me,” Kohler said.

He also added that he enjoys some other perks as well.

“I get to take my laundry home, and see my little sister, and I can order up Happy Joe’s Pizza whenever I like.”

Kohler’s father Hank owns the local pizza favorite.

While Kohler’s football future is uncertain at this point, he is sure what he wants to accomplish on the track this spring.

“I want to get back over seven feet, and after not helping my team at Nationals last year, I would really like to make it there and help them this year.”