Expert: Thom Brooks - 9/13/2007

Question
QUESTION: Let me clarify myself, my name is Taj am 5’7 170lbs and 15 yrs old, living in Bangladesh hopefully for College am planning go to USA, my problem, is with any luck when I go to the US am ‘thinking’ofplaying college football. My attributes am superfast(am not the only one who says; am fast; I won many track tornaments), very muscular , and am a very aggressive player. The position which bests fits me I believe is either WR or RB considering my attributes. My knowledge of the game is adequate (but I believe that is not enough) well coach you’re the expert obviously, do you think I got what it takes and if I do how can I prepare myself for the ‘best game in the world’. And how are walk on football tryouts carried out; what do coaches llok for in a RB. Am a die hard football fan I live in a Third World COUNTRY AND thinks of college football in the US. Please give me some good advice!!!!!!!!!!!

ANSWER: Taj, Hello!

Your determination will make the difference.  You height will be a detriment in the Coach's eyes until you show them you have the grit to make up with speed and durability.  

If you are planning on tryouts at age 17-19, you need to get to work today.  If you do not have stats, films, records to bring then you're at a huge disadvantage when you compete with the men that will be trying out for the same positions.  You will need to show an incredible Vertical Jump.  

If you think you're suited for WR or RB, then those positions will have the fastest, toughest, tallest and most experienced trying out along with you.  You are going to grow a good bit more in the next 3 years.  You may consider walking on as a kicker and then let them see you with the ball in your hands.  

With hundreds of outlets available, you may start off by playing at a Junior College program, or Division III, until you get recognition and experience.  A major college will then take a look at your abilities.  Most of them will turn away if your grades are not up to standards, so do not ignore your studies.

Have a great day and keep me posted on your progress.

Thom Brooks

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

QUESTION: Since am an international student does that put me in a disadvantages with the coaches , for colleges walkon tryouts how many openings are there usually for any colleges and do they tryout players of different positions separately. What drills do they commonly do for WR and RB as walk ons for a college like Harvard, Yale ,Princton etc.

Answer
If your Visa is proper you would not have any delays due to being an international student.  The openings would vary between colleges but it still depends on which position you would seek to play.  You will be graded on your running time, ability to make quick turns, hands, endurance and knowledge of the game.

Have a great day,

Thom Brooks

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