Texas Southern SWAC football champ Matt Hardrick heads to the 2011 Elite Pro Football Combine in hopes of being chose by a team in the National Football League.
The Elite Pro Football Combine serves as a supplement to the NFL’s National Scout and provides players with a comprehensive NFL evaluation and thorough test and other evaluations. The results, combine scores, video, photos are entered into a database accessible by 32 official NFL clubs.
TSU football has made a drastic change in the most recent season by earning the SWAC championship title for the first time in over 40 years in the 2010 season against Alabama State University gaining the respect of many and uplifting the tiger spirit.
March 19, 2011 , Matt Hardrick ,a 6’6 third year offensive lineman for TSU will get an opportunity to showcase his skills at the combine and score big to earn the attention of the National Football League.
“It’s motivating me because now that we have won [SWAC], people can see what this program has turned into and makes me want to come back and continue teaching those skills” said Hardrick
Privileged players chosen from the Regional Elite Pro Football Combine may be considered to go on to the National Elite Pro Football combine which will be held April 15 -16 2011 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis .
“It’s a big privilege to be there because only a certain players can participate ... if you’re not a memorable player they may deny your application.” said Hardrick. “I am going in with an agent so hopefully all I have to do is perform well and do my best to make an impression.”
Dedicated to the game for 8 years and now rounding out his last semester at school, Hardrick reflects on the importance of this opportunity and what it means for him at this point in his career. Many football players know having status before entering into the NFL brings great promise to a football career.
With great expectations for the next 5 years and anticipation for a “million dollar” contract , Hardrick keeps his eyes on the prize.
“I hope to gain a great networking opportunity and have fun, my college career is over so it’s time for me to go out there and make a name for myself.” said Hardrick.
As a graduating Senior, Matt has been on a non-stop track to perfecting his craft and expanding his education. Being prepared as a athlete and a scholar , he has been continuously training to become even better.
Hardrick knows the importance of being mentally and physically ready to take on the challenges of being a professional football player. Making good decisions on his health for great football performance and mentally staying focused to keep himself on the right path outside of football.
“I’m graduating in May which is big for me and my family.” said Matt. “I have been working out since the SWAC game. I work out twice a day 4 times a week, and stay around friends who motivate me to stay out of trouble and not ruin my chances for my career.”Hardrick has planned his next moves carefully and even scored the attention of three Arena Football teams as a backup plan in the event the 2011 Combine doesn’t go as planned.
Reflecting on his past three years at Texas Southern , Matt has had great experience and gained usable knowledge on what it means to be amongst a team and assume responsibilities. Receiving feedback from fellow teammates to fans , Hardrick has used the criticism to fuel his energy.
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