Expert: Thom Brooks - 12/23/2007

Question
hey, i need your advice drastically. I am a junior attending Wareham High School, and just waiting for my senior season to come. I lift and train myself strength and speed wise all year round and i would like to say without sounding too full of myself that i am a really hard worker. I do every little thing i can to make myself better. But after my dream high school senior season i am going to take my chances on trying to walk onto a Div 3 Bridgewater State team. What i need to know is if a kid like me could have a chance of making it. Now it is Decemeber when im writing this and i still have over a year left to lift and get faster before i would try out. My stats are i am 5'6'' maybe 5'7'' on a good day and go back and forth between 175 and 180 pounds. The summer going into my junior season i ran a 4.50 fourty yard dash hand time and a 4.61 lazer time. I bench press currently 245 lbs, i squat 400 lbs, and i can power clean 230. Now i know i can shave my fourty down to possibly a low 4.5 and i can get all my lifts up  alot by then but will that be enough? I have played a number of different positions mainly Running Back, slot reciever, Defensive End, Nose tackle, Linebacker,and defensive back. I have faired pretty well at all of them, my best being running back and slot reciever. I am willing to do whatever the coaches say and will push myself beyond my limits. I just need you to tell me as best as you can from hearing my stats and my little story what you think my chance is of playing at Bridgewater state and if you think im lifting and speed wise where i should be or am i below? Also are there any tips to what i can do to better my chances?

Answer
Michael, hello!

Your stats are impressive and if they get better, you will be quality enough to make many schools.  Your height is not Division I standards, but I sense you more than carry your weight on the field.  If Bridgewater State is your objective, you need to contact their coaches this month.  Do not wait.  They will advise if they have any Senior High Combines for you to participate in.  Your current coaches should be able to advise on your growth charts and time charts.  If not, you need to keep accurate records.  Compile a list of your stats, film and best plays in each position.  

Your discipline and dedication will take you to the positions you seek!!

You are going to make Bridgewater State proud!!!

Have a Merry Christmas!!

Thom Brooks