Expert: Thom Brooks - 9/12/2008

Question
Hi, thank you for taking your time into reading this.
My name is JP Berdejo i am 18 years old, 200 pounds and i am 6ft 3". I live in Bradenton, FL and  I am resently  going to a community college as a freshman. The only football experience that i've had is of my sophmore year spring training; 2006. As soon as i graduated in May 2008, i been  working out since and gained 20 pounds of muscle. I want to take advantage of my size and speed. I was recruited during the spring time of 2008 to a semi-prep rugby team thanks to my speed. Unfortunately i suffered torn ligaments to my left ankle and dislocated my left shoulder. I had no insurance so folks freaked out and had to leave.. Now i stand strong. Im trying out oct. 4th for the Bradenton Gladiators; a semi-prep football team that plays for Manatee county. I Thought it would be a good idea to play for them and try to get a feeling and also a tape for the University of South Florida. What can i do in order to fulfill my dreams of playing for a college? I am a very dedicated and a hard working athlete, i put everything on the line in order to reach my goals. So please if you could just give me a few tips on where or how may I start I would highly appreciate it. Thank you; Juan Pablo Berdejo.

Answer
Juan, hello!

Your obstacle will be that you do not have the experience that other men have.  You will be competing against those who have played four years or more, so they have the advantage.  If you have football skills, strength and durability, then you will be able to have the opportunity to beat them out for the job.

Playing with the Bradenton Gladiators may give you an advantage but if you are paid for it, you could be disqualified as a college player.

You need to get with the coaches of the colleges where you seek to play.  They will tell you the requirements, dates, workout schedules, etc.  If you cannot contact their secretary at the athletic department, then get with your local high school coaches and high school football officials and county recreational department people.  They will give you tips and contacts.

Take care,

Thom Brooks




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