DeKALB | Kickers are sometimes the butt-end of jokes, but there’s no laughing about the streak that NIU kicker Chris Nendick owns.

Nendick has successfully converted 96 extra points in a row, enough to shatter the old record of 52 by Steve Azar from 2002-2003.

The Naperville native took time out to talk to the Northern Star about his streak, playing with an old buddy, booting other types of balls and kicking from the new NCAA tee.

Northern Star: You have 96-straight extra points; How does it feel to know that No. 100 could be coming up?

Chris Nendick: You know what, 100 is just another number man. It’s another digit in the book.

NS: You’ve know Phil Horvath since your days at Naperville Central. How does it feel to work with him?

CN: I’m just so comfortable with Phil. He didn’t hold for me in high school, but started at my first fall camp. Ever since it’s been a blessing.

NS: Do you and Horvath do anything to celebrate after your PAT?

CN: He just tells me good job right after I kick it and we just go about our business. It’s my job, he’s just there to help out.

NS: Have you ever tried any other sports that involve kicking a ball?

CN: I used to play soccer; I played until eighth grade. Once in a while, I get out and kick a soccer ball, but I mostly like to play basketball now.

NS: Have you ever punted a basketball?

CN: [Laughing] I mean the basketball is round and it goes really far, but I’ve never really done it.

NS: What do you do with your time during the offseason when you’re not kicking?

CN: I’m big into video games and movies. I just try to have fun and stay loose.

NS: Any special video games?

CN: I’m big into NCAA football.

NS: Do you ever play yourself and the Huskies?

CN: Once in a while, depending on who my opponent is.

NS: Garrett Wolfe has been bringing some scouts to the games. Have you ever thought that you might start being watched now too?

CN: Garrett’s brought a lot of attention to Northern Illinois, and that’s obviously doing us some great things. If it comes along it comes along, but it’s not something I’m worried about.

NS: It’s been a hard week. How are the Huskies going to hit the field on Saturday?

CN: We better come out there with some fire. If we don’t come out with some fire it could be another tough week, but I feel we’ll be all right.

Ben Gross is an NIU football beat reporter for the Northern Star.