Expert: Thom Brooks - 11/9/2009

Question
Hi there,

Ive noticed you have answered many questions for others regarding football and I have one of my own. I played High School football for a small christian school that did very well in our league. (We went un-defeated 3 straight years) I was the starting TE on this team, however I was also the back-up QB. For the last year and a half Ive been at a small college in Tampa, Fl. But after this semester Ill be transfering to the University of North Alabama. Its always been my dream to play football there. However, in the last year Ive lost alot of my excess weight that allowed me to play TE. Instead Id like to try to walk-on as a QB. I have an excellent arm, as i can throw the ball at a max of about 55-60 yards. My accuracy is good and im fairly comfortable in the pocket as well as managing a game. I realize that many of my skills need fine tuning. In your opinion would I stand a chance of being able to walk on? I bench around 190, squat 350, and my 40 time is around 4.10 - what do you think i can do to increase my chances?  

Answer
Zach, hello!

I still own a house down in Sebring, and when you said s small school in Tampa, I thought of Hillsborough Community College.  I was a Tampa Spartan Football fan in the late '60's and early '70's when they had Fred Solomon, and Big John Matuszak playing for them..... So, you brought back some happy memories.

Playing for Northern Alabama would be an honor but you will be competing against some fine quality players that have experience playing QB.  With that being said, you have some decent background that could catch the coach's eyes.  You have the mental attitude of having been on an undefeated squad for 3 years.  That carries a lot of clout with coaches.  If you can bring that kind of Leadership, Pride and Grit to a team, it could make up for your lack of experience.  So, its a huge factor.  

I coach a men's baseball team.  We have won our championship 4 out of 5 years.  The 10-14 teams are generally good, former college players, so they're not slouches.  We've been able to create an atmosphere of the Bronx Bombers because my Savannah Bombers carry that tradition of having won it before.  One of them saw me this weekend and said we won the title 21 days ago and he is still on a cloud.  He said he's getting used to staying on top and has no intention of letting another team take it away.  That's the spirit that you probably have for your former invovlement.  That's what coaches look for and can seldom find.

If you have a 4.10 40 time, the team is going to find a place for you somewhere!!!!   That ain't benchwarmer speed.....


Obviously, you need to have a healthy diet, without dirty drugs, and you need to get your face in front of the NCAA football rules book and you need to continue with as many Sprints as possible.  Find some buddies to practice with.  Get a throwing partner.  I am a Tennessee boy that lived in 18 years in Florida, but also logged in 8 years in Baltimore back in the 1950's.  I saw Johnnny Unitas with his countless hours of practice.
He and Raymond Berry would stay for hours after the regular drills just to practice their timing on those sideliine passes.  You need someone like that to share your dream with.  Call the school and tell them you're looking for a #82 and that you're going to lead them to more Championships.  Do the things that get their attention without being Vain, and make them long for you.  Sell Yourself.  It will be the advantage you need over the other men that are competing againsst you.

Call the school this week.  Do not procrastinate or your dream will become Dust.





Take Care,

Thom Brooks
www.BrooksInsuranceSchool.com
Savannah Adult Baseball League

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