Expert: Thom Brooks - 7/15/2008

Question
Hello Mr. Brooks,
            I've taken and worked with a football team where i go to college for a little over 6yrs. and only because i have a small case of a mental illness the football coach won't let me try out for the team. I asked him one time why not try for & he said not only because of my disability but also because the school wants him to pick the best one from the schools and not really letting people walk on. Why does he not let me try and what can i do to try for the team or what colleges here in California can i try for?

Answer
Fredrick, hello!

Your Coach is responsible for selecting the best recruits possible but if you feel you should be given a tryout, and if he refuses, you have to go to your school's Appel Process.  If a Doctor clears you to try out, you should be given the opportunity.  If you cannot compete with the others for that chosen position, then you will know you gave it your best attempt and that someone beat you out for the job.  There is no DisHonor in him denying you an opportunity, nor one if you choose to try out for the team.  Without knowing both sides of the story, I cannot choose sides.  It would be a great memory to see you be able to suit up for the team, regardless if you even played during a game.  You've given a lot of valuable time to your team for six years.  It seems they can afford to give you a little bit of their time.

Take care and Do Great !

Thom Brooks