Well, heck, why not? First of all, it’s a chance to get away and cut loose a little bit. I don’t mean go crazy but I do mean an opportunity to stretch out a bit. Be on your own for a few days, a little independence. The LinemenInc camp is also an opportunity to learn and improve; an opportunity to be challenged and to step up to that challenge.

You players all know who the big man is on your team. You all know just how much you are going to be or not going to be challenged by the guys on your team. As for that one monster, just how challenged is he going to be by the rest of you? In camp there are lots of big men. There are players from all over the western United States from all types and sizes of schools. You either step up or get stepped on. It’s interesting to watch that evolution take place from practice to practice.

It is a gradual process taught step by step with each progression leading to the next. As you complete each practice you’ll begin to feel the difference. The guys around you and the coaches will start to take note. The tempo will be picking up. The hitting will increase and intensify. You’ll feel the valley sun beating on the back of your neck and your legs and arms will begin to feel heavy. And at the same time, you’ll have this sense of accomplishment, this feeling of belonging to something greater, of being apart of something special and unique. You’re a lineman. You are the last of the gladiators.

It is also an opportunity to work under some of the best college coaches in the business; Cal, San Diego State, Colorado State, Cal-Poly. Former players like Rob Gatrell and Preston Walrath. Where else are you going to find this type of opportunity and exposure? Did I mention the food? If an army runs on its stomach so does a camp of linemen. The University of the Pacific has one of the greatest cafeteria’s I’ve had the pleasure to chow down in. I’ve been to a number of camps at a number of schools and none compare. Just ask the guys who were there last year.

Here’s the bottom line gentlemen: you are only as good as you strive to be. If you are content to stay where you are then that is exactly where you will find yourself. On the other hand, if you want to be the best you can be, if you are willing to challenge yourself, then you will improve. It can’t be helped. The great Vince Lombardi once said, “Work and sacrifice, perseverance, competitive drive, selflessness, and respect for authority are the price that each one must pay to achieve any goal that is worthwhile.” LinemenInc camp is a great place to start working towards that goal. See you in June!