Expert: Thom Brooks - 5/27/2008

Question
QUESTION: Hey,

I'm currently a freshman at UCLA. I'm 6'2 and a very lean 185 lbs. I didn't play organized football in high school due to family financial problems, but i want to walk onto the football team.

I was thinking that i could train over the next year and try out next spring. How many years would i be able to play if i didn't start until my junior year? What are some stats (weight, 40 time, RM for squat and bench, vertical jump height) that will make up for my lack of experience? What type of training should i do? Can you suggest a way to improve my skills, such as a college summer program? How should i approach the coaching staff? I am a motivated person with a very good work ethic. I know the odds are against me, but i know that i can do it. Thank you very much for you help.

ANSWER: James, hello!  You need to contact the office of the Athletic Department.  The coaches are not allowed to give you a try out until this Fall, but you should try to walk on at that time.  If you are not successful, you will have all of the requirements in order to get ready for next spring's tryouts.  Your times and exercise programs will depend on the positions you seek to try out for so I can't advise on that.  Get with those who will be playing the position and they will likely welcome you as a training partner.  You can then get into the system.

Take care!

Thom Brooks



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I probably will try out for a running back. Should i try to train for positions that the team is lacking? What are some competitve stats for RB? How would i go about finding a private coach to meet with me a few days a week over the summer? Thanks again, Thom!

Answer
James, hello!  You should prepare for your position as a RB, regardless of a team's needs.  The team could change in a single day as to what/who/why they need a key position.  I coach a men's baseball team (over age 25) and one player can make a different impact on the success of that team.  If you're an athlete, the scouts and coaches will get your properly fitted.  

As to finding a coach/mentor/scout, you need to literally do your homework by contacting all of the local high school coaches, the YMCA, the local AND STATE high school associations.  Go to any organized ballgame (even baseball) and get numbers and names from the officials.  They often officiate baseball and football and can get you steered towards the names you seek.  Calling the local TV and radio celebrities will give you tremendous contacts.  They rub shoulders with many Coaches on a regular basis, often times having them appear on TV and radio.  If you are not near any of the contacts, then you need to travel to the biggest area where those folks can talk with you.  If you hesitate, you will not be heard from.

Write your plans on a piece of paper and start logging in all of the names and facilities.  Go about it as a Business Plan and you will be successful.

Take care,

Thom Brooks