Expert: Thom Brooks - 12/31/2007

Question
I am a recent college graduate, and dont really have experience from playing much high school or college football.  I played for one year in high school and was a quarterback.  I decided to focus on my studies so I dropped out of it during my sophomore year.  I have not played on a organized team since then, but I have the passion and desire to play at a competitive college level.  I am 22 years old and I feel that within one year, I could be in the best shape of my life.  I am currently 5'10", 185 lbs and run the 40 in 5.1.  I would like to play quarterback, even as a backup.  What would be the likelyhood that I could walk onto a DI or even DII school and play on their football team?  Thank you!

Answer
Robert, hello!

You have to meet the NCAA guidelines but you can play if your eligibility has not been used.  Some have gone back decades later to finish that dream!

If you do not have a background of experience, you would be at the very bottom of their depth chart until you can demonstrate that your age would offer Leadership and a calmness to the younger men.  Your size would not be a factor if you're physically and mentally tough.  As I typed that, I just saw a Colt hit a Tennessee Titan in tonight's game, who was returning the ball after Indianapolis scored.
The hit was terrific.  A big mean, ugly guy level the runner.  If you see that picture, then picture yourself, at your size.  Can you get up from a hit like that and still see the field?  How much pain can you take?  If you have that kind of toughness, then you can make a team proud.  

You need to dramatically improve your sprints, your 40, and your arm strength.  You have absolutely got to offer that Coaching team something more than the bigger guys that have more experience.  So what is your plan to make them take notice?  Plenty of Div II and Div III schools will give you a chance.  You will have to be enrolled in classes, so what is your major and minor in to pursue a Masters or further academic degrees?  They will tell you the minimum you must enroll in each year.  

If playing is a dream, do not put it aside.  Push hard for it and you will be successful.  You've accomplished an incredible dream of earning that degree, regardless if football is in your future.  

If you do not make the team, remember that you can still coach or assist at YMCA, local city and county recreational leagues, high schools and perhaps at the college level.  You can also join to become a high school football official and actually get paid while you run the fields with the boys!

If you have time, listen to my youngest son's band.  Cameron is chasing his dream of becoming a famous singer and has a great deal of financial support from several people to make that dream come true......... The opportunity is there for all to chase.

myspace.com/listen2three

Thom Brooks
Savannah, Georgia