Expert: Thom Brooks - 7/7/2008

Question
QUESTION: hi I'm Justin and I'm a sophomore in high school and I'm going to be playing football this year last year I didn't play cause I wasn't ready this year I've been training but I'm not for sure if two hour is enough so what kind of training should i do to become a good football player cause i don't think I'll get a starting position this year even though I've lost plenty of weight and my speed starting to do good. and I have another question my high school football team is a division two team but we usually go to state how can I get scout's to look at me the next couple of seasons

ANSWER: Justin, hello!

You need to talk with the coaching staff of your football team.  I do not know the positions you seek nor your ability.  They can get you prepared best.  If you have any contacts with some at the college level, they will give you ideas of how to get football ready.  Do you need to work on sprints to get your time improved?  Do you need to work on strength with weights for a line position?  Do you have a good plan for a healty diet?  Only you know your endurance and skill.  You need to train for the positions where you can help your team the best.  If you are in that proper playing position, then you can work on improving that skill.  The scouts will observe you if you appear to be confident and capable.  Keep your stats, films, newspaper clippings.  It's great that you're wise enough to seek advice at your stage.  If you exercise with due care, you will be filling out and improving during these next 3 years.

Have a great season!

Thom Brooks

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

QUESTION: hi what if I have no contact's with colleges what should i do then

and the position I'm not for sure about what position I'm good at i weight about 145 and my height is 5'5 but what position would that be good at

ANSWER: Justin, hello!  Your coaches will get you on the track but at your size and weight, you sound suited as a DB, RB, or kicker.  If your size increases, your strength and skill will also improve which means that several positions will be suitable.  But, only you and the coaches know where you will be the best fit.  Sterling play will attract the scouts.  If you're an average player, you will have to get their attention.  Remember, your grades will get you into colleges in order for you to play football.  Ignore the grades and you will not be playing ball.  The NCAA has minimum grades in order to suit up.

It's too soon to talk about your best position until you get involved in tryouts.  The coaches will get you where you're helping the team.  

Take care,

Thom Brooks

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

QUESTION: okay so their is less then 17 day's left until we start up the tryout for the football team what should i be doing for for the last 17 day should I just keep training and don't think about or what should I do

Answer
You need to practice your sprints, your weights and your books.  If you are equal to your competition for a position, you can be more football savvy.  So, learn as much as possible about the rules.  Study your moves in a mirror or on camera to see if you are sound with the mechanics.

Take care,

Thom Brooks