Expert: Thom Brooks - 1/30/2009

Question
Hey Thom, I see these people asking what the chances are of making it in football at a college level with no prior football experience. I am one of these people, but I really would love for you to be as straight with me as you possibly can.  I promise I can handle the truth ha-ha. I have the determination and willpower that is second to none.  I love defending. In any aspect of any game. Defense seems to be my strong suit and just comes naturally to me. But as the subject says in all seriousness I have no experience and I want to be ready.  I need to begin studying and need to know what is to be expected at your typical walk-on tryout so that I could be somewhat prepared.  If you could somehow link me a site where I could study rules, terminology, and just whatever it is I should already be familiar with from playing high school football I would greatly appreciate it.  I am not a quitter and I do not want to go into this unprepared and I really want to prove to myself that I am a true athlete. I'm 5'11 184 my body fat % is MAYBE at like 5-6. I'm unoffically timed at the 40 yd at 4.7 but this is with my friend using a stopwatch on his cellphone. I know this is a long message and I appreciate your time and if you can help me out at all I'd love it.  Thanks.

Answer
Matthew, hello.

I do give the standard answer for the standard question.  I've attached the websites to help you with the NCAA college rules of play, and Eligibility requirements.

No one knows how you will fare until you get to a combine and have the scouts running you through their regimen.  You need to make contact with all of the sports people in your local media (radio, TV, and newspaper).  The local football officials can help.  The current and former players of the college you seek can offer great advice. You can talk to the local YMCA and Fitness center trainers.  They can get you into a diet and weight training program that matches your size, and playing position requirements.  

Your size indicates you would be suited as a DB, or special teams.
Only you know your skills when engaged with the opponent.  Are you mentally and physically dependable?  Have you acknowledged your weak areas and sought to improve?  Do you have U-Tube film to show those interested?  Have you made the telephone calls to the Atletic Department where you want to play?  Are your grades meeting the minimum standards the NCAA requires?  Many former alumni of your new school can put you in touch with the exact people you need to talk with.

Google the website of your preferred college.  They will give you the news of tryout dates.  Google College Training Dates.  


Keep the fire buring and you will be suiting up soon.  Let me know your college so I can follow your career.  If you make it big, I want 6 tickets, dadgumit!

Thom Brooks




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