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The NFL Draft Bible follows UNLV defensive tackle Martin Tevaseu and his journey to the 2010 NFL Draft. This week he created a buzz in Orlando during the week of the 85th Annual East-West Shrine Game practices. He looks to put a stamp on his performance on Saturday.
Dear Journal:
The last time we’ve spoke I was preparing for the 85th East-West Shrine Game. On January 15th the day before I left for the East-West Shrine Game, I met with my agent. We met with representatives from the Las Vegas All-Stars After School Program where I will be volunteering with counseling kids at-risk by emphasizing the importance of higher education, staying away from drugs and alcohol and, making the right decisions. After that meeting, my agent and I met with my professional trainer Brian Van Hook to discuss my specific physical goals and its progress so far.
In the early morning of Saturday January 16, 2010 I departed Las Vegas bound for Orlando, Florida where the East-West Shrine Game was being held. All of the players participating reported on that day. Upon our arrival in Florida we took a series of written tests for various NFL teams, attended several meetings and orientation. In our orientation I learned that Legendary NFL Head Coach Marty Schottenheimer was nominated to be our head coach and, Defensive Line Coach, Jeff Hayes with the Cincinnati Bengals was going to be my position coach. I was absolutely excited.
On January 17, 2010 we traveled to the Shiners Hospital for Children in Tampa to meet and play with the children. It was a great experience. I enjoyed meeting the kids. When I first met the kids, they all asked for autographs. After I completed each autograph, I decided to take it a step further and requested their autograph. They were all amazed. When I got back to the hotel my shirt was full of autographs. Their courage inspired me way more than any game or down I’ve ever played in my life. Although the kids were all amazed by my request, we all had a good time and it was a humbling experience for me.
On Monday, January 18, 2010 we took all of our measurements. I measured in at 6’1 ¼ weighing in at 329 pounds. Only NFL Personnel were in attendance. It felt like we were being herded like cattle. I was so nervous. As I approached the stage, I saw Coach Bill Parcells. I couldn’t believe I was actually standing in front of Bill Parcells. I was sort of in a daze when I was immediately snapped back into reality by Coach Parcells saying, “step on the scale please.” That was a surreal experience. During that morning, I also had the opportunity of conversing with a few NFL scouts in passing. We had our first practice near the Citrus Bowl. Although we were in shells the drills were still intense. All in all, I felt I had a good practice. Later that evening, and in order to put me in the best position, I met with my agent to discuss a few things he observed at practice that needed improvement.
On Tuesday, January 19, 2010, we had our first practice in full gear. Again, aside from a few minor things I needed to work per Coach Hayes, I still had a good practice. Later that evening I was interview by two NFL teams. Again, I met with my agent to discuss a few things he observed at practice that needed improvement.
On Wednesday and Thursday we had meetings in the morning and reviewed the film from practice. Wednesday was the last day in full pads and Thursday we were in shells. Coach Hayes said I had a good practice as did Coach Schottenheimer.
Today, we had meetings in the morning, reviewed the film from practice and a walk through at 2:00 p.m. It is now 10:20 p.m. and although my nerves won’t let me to go to sleep, my body needs the rest for tomorrow.
In the meantime, wish me well and pray that I perform at my best. Watch me on ESPN2 12:00 p.m. PST. Saturday January 23, 2010 I am jersey #33. Thanks for your support yall!
Sincerely,
#68 Martin Tevaseu, DT, UNLV
Journal Entry #2
Journal Entry #1
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