FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentucky State University football graduate student Mathew Bolanos has signed with the Cincinnati Dukes, continuing his football career after completing a standout final collegiate season with the Thorobreds.
Bolanos, a native of Lake Elsinore, California, joined Kentucky State to complete his final year of eligibility while pursuing graduate studies in KYSU's Forensic Counseling program. His next opportunity with the Dukes reflects both his continued development as a specialist and the impact of his time at Kentucky State.
During his final collegiate season, Bolanos became one of the most productive punters in NCAA Division II and placed his name throughout the Kentucky State single-season record book. He ranks fifth in program history with 1,997 punting yards, first with a 43.41 punting average and tied for fifth with 46 punts in a season. He also recorded nine punts of 50 yards or more and placed 15 punts inside the 20-yard line.
His ability to control field position was a key piece of Kentucky State's special teams' unit during one of the strongest seasons in program history.
Before arriving at Kentucky State, Bolanos competed at Defiance College, where he earned All-HCAC Honorable Mention recognition and built a reputation as a consistent field-position specialist. Across his collegiate career, he totaled more than 9,100 punting yards, recorded a career-long punt of 73 yards and placed 53 punts inside the 20-yard line.
The Cincinnati Dukes announced the signing on social media, highlighting Bolanos' leg strength, accuracy and ability to impact field position. Dukes head coach Daryl "Slash" Moore called Bolanos a "game-changer" and said his experience and special teams ability will strengthen the team immediately.
While Bolanos' football career continues, his goals extend beyond the field. He plans to return to Kentucky State to continue the Forensic Counseling program and has expressed a long-term interest in counseling student-athletes. His experience as a graduate student-athlete has helped shape that vision, combining his passion for athletics with a desire to support others through counseling and mentorship.
His signing with the Dukes adds another chapter to a journey that reflects persistence, academic focus and the value of the student-athlete experience at Kentucky State.
The Cincinnati Dukes are scheduled to face the Kentuckiana Cavalry at 7 p.m. Saturday, June 6, at Atrium Stadium Dwire Field at Mason High School.
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