Expert: Thom Brooks - 9/7/2008

Question
Hi. I am a 5'10, 175lb DB in my freshmen year of college at a Div 1 AA school. In high school I received many accolades playing both offense and defense. I was named 1st team all state my junior and senior year as well as 2nd team all state RB.I was also voted Defensive MVP for my entire conference. I ran for over 3400 yds total in high school varsity play and recorded 159 tackles my senior year.I also played starting DB in the all state game and had several big plays.  I had interest from a few Div 2 schools but chose to go to a bigger school for both the academics and the hope of playing for a bigger program. I had been talking to the coaches throughout my senior year in high school and although they did not offer me a scholarship they sounded promising that I would have a legitimate chance at walking on. When I arrived for tryouts we did a few position drills and the 40.I was very upset we were not able to hit as that is by far my strong talent. They did not tell us what times we received and 3 days later there were 5 kids from tryouts that had made the team (no DB's). I was not on the list and was quite disappointed.I went and talked to the head coach and he told me my 40 wasn't good enough and they really weren't looking for any DB's. He did not tell me my 40 time.
Now I am faced with a dilemma about what to do for next year. I love football and have been playing since I was 6 years old.Although my size is not great, it has never affected my play. I have been named Defensive MVP every year I have played football. My heart is 100% in this game and I never missed one practice, weight lifting, or game my fours years of high school. I am really enjoying my classes and love the business program they offer but really want to play ball and not sure if spring tryouts next year will be any different. I am willing to put in the time and effort but don't want to get the same story.
Before tryouts the DB's coach told me I had nothing to worry about, now he won't even return my calls.
Please send me any suggestions on what you think my next steps should be. Thanks for any help!!!

Answer
Marc, hello!

The first point seen is that the college where you tried out did not need you as a Defensive Back.  Maybe the Coach has warts or maybe he didn't like your personality.  If you show me the records, stats or films of what you've accomplished, I would be very interested in finding a place for your Leadership on the team.  So, he likely had plenty at your slot.  

You do not need to get discouraged.  You need to find another school that will give you a tryout.  If you did play for a school in a lesser division, you can still have a great time, get a good education, and who knows, make it to the NFL.  You are not limited by the level of play if you are a good player.

Get the assistance of former coaches and players.  Send that Coach your email to me.  Maybe he didn't know you were talented in many areas on the field.  

Whatever the obstacle, allow it to Strengthen you.



Thom Brooks