Kicker's Roommates

There is a saying in sports that your teammates are much more than just that. They are your friends, protectors, big/little brothers, and family. These are the guys that go to battle with you every time you step on the field. These are the guys that see you behind the scenes, when the jersey comes off and you are no longer a player. They are there for you both on and off the field, and what whatever problems you may have; well they help you. These are the guys that you can call on, no matter what time of day and they will drop what they're doing and come. My three roommates who I share an apartment are also my teammates. We are all very different people but we are essentially a family.

First there is Mike. When I entered my freshmen year, I literally had no friends. Mike who is a year older than me took me under his wing. Mike is one of the best athletes I have ever known. According to my Dad, "Mike is a total bruiser." He is the guy you give the ball to on a 4th and 1, to power through the line. Mike sacrifices his body on every play, off the field he is much more. Mike showed me what life was really about my freshmen year. I had never belonged to a tight knit group of friends before college. My first year was an experience. Being the baby on the team, it was okay for my older teammates to mess with me, but help your soul if you weren't on the team and you messed with me. I had my first college drinks with Mike, I went to my first parties with him, first bar, first club. He showed me how to be a good "big" brother.

Then there is Matty. Matt came to Mason last year as a wide eyed speedy receiver. I have never seen anyone more dedicated to anything. Matt is either doing two things: lifting or studying. Matt's first words to me were, "You have to be the kicker." Ever since then its been a good friendship. Matt understands why I act so goofy sometimes and he understands the pressures I am under sometimes. I can talk to him about anything. Every kicker needs someone who they can lean on when times get tough. We have both had struggles on the field (his more injury related, then performance), and its good to have a pal to go through struggles with.

Finally there is Sean. I swear this kid has stick em' built into his hands. He just does not drop passes. I have never seen anyone as competitive as Sean is. Off the field he is that nice quite guy. On the field he transforms into an animal. I've seen this kid take out guys twice his size on the field. He's that guy who will put you on your ass ten times a game, but all ten times help you up. Sean and I have a good connection. He understands what I want and need after football, he like Matt and Mike, understand who I am and what I do and why I do it. This is what separates these three from almost anyone else in this world. These guys get me. There my boys. We go to battle together every Saturday. Hey, its okay for us to pick on each other, but if your not one of us, then there is a problem. And trust me you don't want problems with these guys.

Alright kids, I'm out. I just felt that my three roommates deserved a blog shout out. The funny posts will continue in this upcoming week.