Wisconsin Badgers: Kicker Rafael Gaglianone out for the season after surgery for back injury

MADISON -- Wisconsin Badgers kicker Rafael Gaglianone is out for the remainder of the season after he had surgery on Thursday, September 29th for a back injury, according to a release at UWBadgers.com.

According to Badgers officials, Gaglianone missed the Badgers' 30-6 win at Michigan State last Saturday, September 24th as a result of the injury.

His condition appeared to improve Sunday -- but worsened in the days that followed, leading to the need for the surgical procedure.

"You're disappointed for Rafael because of all the work he's put in and how well he was playing. From a football perspective, I've appreciated the way the other guys in that unit have responded this week. Unfortunately this isn't his first experience with something like this, but we've seen that Raf is going to do everything he can to get back on the field as soon as he can," Badgers Head Coach Paul Chryst said.

Gaglianone, the Badgers' field goal specialist since 2014, had converted 7 of 8 kicks this season before being sidelined by the injury, according to the release.

Recovery from a similar back injury led to him missing spring practice in 2015.

Based on his participation in only three games this season, Gaglianone will be eligible to apply for a medical hardship waiver with the NCAA and seek an additional season of competition, according to the release.