Expert: Thom Brooks - 6/19/2007

Question
Hey, I'm a 21 year old graduate from USC who's had a new found interest in playing football at a junior college. The thing is, I've never actually played football before in high school or college but I now regret it (...and it's not like it's easy to walk-on the USC football team hah). I was just wondering if it's a ridiculous idea to actually be thinking about trying out for a junior college team considering I have no experience and I graduated college already. Plus, are college graduates even eligible to play in the junior college level? If so, what do you need to do to prepare? Thanks.

Answer
Jon, The JUCO program will advise your eligibility, but it is not too late to play football.  I applaude your interest in wanting to play.  Without a background, you will need to be a Walk On.  The Coaches will observe where your best position would be.  

If you believe you will be willing to pay the price in practice, that you will work hard enough to catch up on the basics and learn their scheme, you can contribute.  Your age would be a plus to add Leadership to the younger guys.  

Let me know which JuCo you join and the position you play. I will follow your games!

Take care,

Thom Brooks
Savannah, Georgia