Expert: Thom Brooks - 9/9/2008

Question
QUESTION: Hi I'm wanting to play college ball but am a little worried about my lack of experience and age (21). I was wondering if I still had a chance to go back and play. I'm 6'4 285 and I'm not in the best shape but have been working on that with a trainer.

ANSWER: Rob, hello!

Your trainer will tell you that you ain't seen nuthin' yet!  Wait till you get into a football camp.  You will hurt in places you never dreamed you had places........

You are not too old.  Your disadvantage will be that you will be attempting to win a position against a guy that has 4 years or more of experience.  You have a huge challenge.  So, what are your plans to overcome that obstacle?  If you cannot show durability, endurance, football skills, football knowledge and great physical strength, you have got to come forward with someone that will coach you to be better than the others.  Leadership is key.  If you have Leadership, your age could be a positive influence on the younger men, even if they have better skills.  

Do not give up easily.  You need to find that college that would love your contribution.  That team is out there.  It depends on how motivated and driven you are to pursue the dream.


Thom Brooks



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

QUESTION: Thank you for the feedback. Couple more questions.
How should I go about contacting colleges to play for and who do I need to talk to.


Thanks,
Rob

Answer
Rob, hello!

You google the particular college of choice, into their Athletic Department.  Their contact person will tell you the details and schedule of their tryouts/requirements and scholarship offers.  When the NCAA rules allow, the scout or coaching staff will contact you.  

An advantage, if you are not a coveted blue chip prospect, would be for you to get a former coach or current player at the university to get a meeting arranged.

Take care,

Thom Brooks  








Please review the following websites. The first one is my youngest son's band!

www.myspace.com/listen2three


D1AFootball.com


NCAA I-AA


Welcome to I-AA.org, the worldwide leader in I-AA official news!




JC Football Recruiting Front Page





 Football.com


The Sports Network - I-AA College Football Historical Scores -



 D1AA College Football  


http://www1.ncaa.org/membership/membership_svcs/eligibility-recruiting



PlayYourGame.com - NCAA Eligibility Explained



Official Web Site of the NCAA