Expert: Thom Brooks - 12/29/2007

Question
Hi,
I am currently a senior at a 4A School. I was a Quarterback this year and did
not get the playing time I think I deserved because of a new coach wanting to
build for the future. I am 6'1" around 185 pounds and run a 4.7-4.8 40. I
bench 215, squat 400, and clean 225. I have generated some interest on the
d3 level and will most likely commit to a d3 school. But, my dream is to play
1-A. I am also exploring the junco option. I really want to play at the D1-A
level. Should I go to a big school and walk on? I need help...

Answer
Peter, Hello!

You need to pursue your dream.  Dadgumit, if you think you are good enough for Div-I , then walk on to that school of choice and let the Coaches know that you're serious about being a good player.  

You've accomplished an incredible dream of being a high school quarterback, regardless of your time on the field.

You would thoroughly enjoy Div-III and probably be a good player.  But............  For the rest of your life, you will wonder if you could have made it the way you dreamed.  So, try it!  If you are not successful, then go to the other schools that will play you.  Remember, pro players like Jerry Rice, Adrian Peterson (Bears), Terry Bradshaw,
college dropout Johnny Unitas, among many, made themselves a success by going for those dreams.  They were not blue chip players but got into school and got noticed.  

So, what do you want out of your college degree?  If you were injured and football was no longer in your future, what would be your destiny?  Things will work out for you.
However, you need to write your goals down and stick to a plan of action.  Be careful not to depend on others to chart your future.  You could end up on the bench.  

I am a high school official and watch young men that will never be able to play once their high school career is over.  If you think you're good enough for college ball, then pursue it with all the enthusiasm you have.  

My three sons are age 20, 26, and 30.  They grow up in a hurry.  You are probably 18 and the world is your Oyster!
You have a window of opportunity today that will close in a few years, if you're hoping football stays in your future.
If you're not the starting quarterback in college, what a great dream it would be to just make the team, at any level.
You may end up being one of the great players, or the greatest Coach to ever come out of your town!  

Find your hot button this month.  Get busy with the contacts of the scouts and coaches for the colleges you desire to attend.  Contact your local football official's association.  Many of them were college ball players that will give you great tips and probably know names of sports people you can speak to.  Go to your YMCA and put out the word about your desire to play.  People will listen.  Some will respond.  Get yourself into the loop.

Have a great year!!

Listen to my son's band at:
myspace.com/listen2three

Happy New Year !!  

Thom Brooks
Savannah, Georgia