Expert: Thom Brooks - 12/13/2007

Question
Hello Thom,

I've played soccer since I was a kid and always wanted to play football. Every time I see a game or even a football, I regret not signing up in high school. I was just curious what college coaches look at in a player and how the walk on process works? I'm currently attending a community college and will be transferring to a four-year school next year. If I didn't play high school football, will they even give me a shot? What do coaches look for in prospective athletes?

Stats:
5'9 185
4.5 40 yard dash
20 reps 225lbs
Hands like Glue

I'm mainly interested in either WR or CB. I think I would excel at KR and PR. Any suggestions?

Answer
Brian, hello!  It's difficult to make statements about you since I can't see what kind of heart you would play with. Your height is an extreme disadvantage if you're going up against a defender that has 5-8 inches on you, but your speed is great.  If you have quick and sure hands, you can certainly fit into a football program.  Your weight indicates that you can likely be a durable player if you're quick enough to avoid the direct hits from the 350 pound guys.  

If you try out as a WR, you will be matched against that team's best CB's and vice versa.  So, if you do not have the four years or more of experience, the opponent will make moves on you that you're not prepared for.  If you have a good vertical jump, you might make an outstanding defender.  

If you try out for a KR or PR, you will likely be a good fit.  Can you kick?  Playing Soccer may give you a chance to kick those 64 yard field goals for your team!

You certainly seem to be athletic enough to serve on Special Teams to be one of the first down the field to tackle the KR.  

The Coaches look at everything the player has to offer, including your intelligence.  If you appear to be a good Leader, but also one that is highly motivated and willing to listen, you will likely make the team.  

Depending on your grades, you might contact the college of choice right now.  They're currently recruiting and you may get an interview within the month, but you have to pursue it.  You will be on the bottom of their list, since they're trying to harvest the cream of the crop.  So, what are your plans to get their attention?  Are you able to attend meetings, tryouts and workouts immediately?  Do you have any video of Soccer that the Coaches can see?  They can tell about your field presence and the air of confidence you show.  Do not be cocky, but you do need to practice Leadership.  Being a Leader on a team can make up for one's weak areas.  You have to keep working hard on those Sprints, weights, good diet and start learning someone's playbook.  Go to local high schools, county recreational departments, YMCA's and your local high school Football Official's association.  They will give you a great deal of insight.  Many of them played college ball.  One hour with a group of football Ref's and you can gather a decade of knowledge.  

What colleges, states and cities, do you hope to enroll in?  How many have you contacted?  How many do you plan to contact?  Get started now!!

Stay in touch and let me know your progress.  

I hope I can help you in your future objective.  

Listen to my son's music at:

myspace.com/listen2three

Have an incredibly Merry Christmas!

 
Thom Brooks
Savannah, Georgia