Expert: Thom Brooks - 5/30/2007

Question
I am in grade 10 and play football. football is pretty much my life. im a really tough kid who plays with tons of heart. i was one of the mvp's of my team and i have dreams of playing in the nfl one day. i currently play tight end but my coaches say ill probobly have to move position if i want to play college ball. this is because i am too small at 6 feet 190. i was curious to know what position you think i will play as being 6 feet 190 and run a 40 in 4.88. my coaches would not answer me and this is why i am asking you. i would also like to know if a player with not all the amazing athletic ability can have a chance of making it to the nfl if they have all the heart. i can play upto anybody. im a really tough kid so i don't think that will be a problem. please give me a response because this is very important to me.
thank you

Answer
Jack, hello!  My oldest son is getting married in San Diego this week and I've not been on the internet.  I apologize for delaying your answer.

The biggest thing is that you are STILL growing, so your Coach needs to evaluate your ability in two years.  Keep working out, have a great healthy diet, and practice until you are perfect.  

No, an average ball player will likely never make it to the NFL.  You may be the best ball player in your school, or even your state, and may still not have the right ability, guts, intelligence, stamina and Luck to make it to that stage.  So, it depends on many things to get to wear the uniform.  You just need to follow the guidelines of success and then start chasing the Dream.  Never give up on the Dream.

I would love to have a tough kid playing, even if he wasn't the best on the field.  If you can earn a scholarship for college, you can outsmart those that may be more talented.  So, keep your nose in the books.  Learn the ART.

If you give up easily, then you weren't as tough as you thought.  Mental toughness will make you the Champion.  


Have a great day,

Thom Brooks
Savannah, Georgia