For example, Gaglianone has made kicks in practice while surrounded by teammates loudly — and good-naturedly — chanting the well-known soccer refrain “Ole, ole, ole, ole.”

During a live scrimmage before more than 5,000 fans on Sunday at Camp Randall Stadium, Gaglianone missed his first field goal attempt, but then drilled a pair from 50 and 55 yards.

“It’s impressive that the kicks go through, but he handles it,” Andersen said.

Asked to interpret that sentiment from his coach, Gaglianone smiled.

“When we have pressure situations and people are trying to get in my head … I’m really confident in myself,” he said. “This is all about confidence and coming in strong and knowing your technique and trusting yourself.”

That self-assured presence has not gone unnoticed by his UW teammates.

“His story’s special with him being here from Brazil and everything,” senior right tackle Rob Havenstein said. “But once you’re on the field that doesn’t really matter.