Expert: Thom Brooks - 8/23/2008

Question
QUESTION: Hey, my name is Ryan and I am now a freshman in college. Ive played football in the past and I was a Very good player. Im 5''8 and 220, muscle. I played LB/FB/DE, and any other line position. I have a solid,muscle build and I have good speed. I had trouble in school so I couldnt play my junior and senior year in High School.

Im not able to play my freshman year in college because of my academic history. Now, i am working hard in the classroom so that I can be able to start playing my sophomore year in college. I was looking at playing Fullback or Linebacker at a Junior College. So my question is, (1)is it possible I can still play for the team??, (2)Do Junior Colleges have football tryouts?? (3)What position do you advise I should play??,and(4) Would I get a better opportunity playing Junior College football first, or should I go to a D-1 or D-2 school and try out for the team???

Im sorry it is so long, I just want to play football again and I need answers. Thank You for your time!!

ANSWER: Ryan, hello!

Yes, you should play ball if your skills allow.  

To answer your questions:

1.  You can play for the team if you meet their educational and physical requirements.  The question mark is, do you have the football experience to beat out those competing for your position?

2.  JUCO does have tryouts.  When you contact the one of your choice, they will advise the dates.

3.  Your size indicates a FB position without knowing your ability to be a FB or LB.

4.  JUCO may give you more playing time, but you may have difficulty transferring or sitting out a year if you move up to higher divisions.


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Take care,

Thom Brooks




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

QUESTION: Alright thanks. My next qustion is that if for my size says I'm a linebacker or fullback, then what should I work and focus on to be the best at those positions.

Answer
Ryan, many men have excelled at both positions at that height.  Your weight makes me think of Don Nottingham.  He was the Human Bowling Ball from the old Baltimore Colts.  His low center of gravity made it difficult to bring him down and he was a stocky bear like yourself.

The team you play for will place you where you can best help them to win games.  If you are fierce at LB, they will overlook your height.

So, the position will be determined by where you play the best to help the team!

Take care,

Thom Brooks