• Emerged from spring drills as the team’s top option for kickoffs

PERSONAL — Born Robert Owen Beard on April 26, 1990 in Fullerton, Calif. Parents: Joseph and Leslie Beard. Family: One brother and one sister. High School (Coach): Troy High School (Jim Burton) 2008. Major: Psychology. Redshirt: 2008.

2009 — Oregon's kick-off specialist in his freshman season ... Attempted one field goal (51 yards) against UCLA, which was blocked ... Utilized on 87 kickoffs, averaging 63.0 yards with 10 touchbacks, while allowing opponents an average starting field position of the 27-yard line.

2008 — Redshirt season.

HIGH SCHOOL — Beard earned three letters in football, two in basketball and two in track at Troy High School in Fullerton, Calif. … Competed in the 100 meters, 4x100 and 4x400 meter relays during the track season while seeing time at running back, linebacker and place kicker in football … Helped lead the Warriors to the 2006 league title with a 12-1 record, the best in school history … Beard was twice named league player of the week his senior season and was named to the all-league team in 2006.