Journey to the Pros

By Kevin Mcleod

Join former NFL player Kevin McLeod on an extraordinary journey through the inner workings of American football. A voyage that unveils a psychological perspective on the mindset of players like never before. McLeod's story is a testament to the business, trials, and tribulations that many aspiring footbal

• Language: English
• Publisher: Kevin Mcleod
• Release date: Oct 24, 2023
• ISBN: 9798869226464

Kevin Mcleod

I received my bachelors in psychology from Auburn University.Former professional athlete. NFL Experience- drafted in the 6th round of the 1998 NFL Draft. Officially retired in 2005. Former teams: Jacksonville Jaguars, Tampa Buccaneers, Atlanta Falcons, Cleveland Browns, Frankfurt Galaxy (NFL Europe) Orlando Predators (Arena League). Authored and self-published two books titled, "Journey to the Pros" & "Switch Kill: They Messed with the Wrong Navy Seal"

Book preview

Chapter 1: The Amatuer Stage

1.1 THE PSYCHOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT OF FOOTBALL PLAYERS

Pop Warner, often referred to as the little league of football, plays a pivotal role in the formative years of aspiring NFL players, serving as the initial structured sports competition that introduces them to the rigorous and competitive world of American football. This foundational experience in Pop Warner leagues significantly contributes to their development, honing essential skills and fostering a deep appreciation for the sport. For many NFL players, Pop Warner represents the beginning of their journey through the demanding school of hard knocks. Pop Warner leagues are meticulously organized, catering to young athletes in nine distinct age and weight divisions. Each division serves as a critical stepping stone in the progression of these budding football talents. The specific age and weight criteria for each division are as follows:

Tiny-Mite - Ages 5-7, Weight Range: 35-75 lbs.

Mighty-Mite - Ages 7-9, Weight Range: 45-95 lbs.

Junior Peewee - Ages 8-10, Weight Range: 60-105 lbs.

Peewee - Ages 9-11, Weight Range: 75-120 lbs.

Junior Midget - Ages 10-12, Weight Range: 85-145 lbs.

Midget - Ages 11-14, Weight Range: 105-170 lbs.

Unlimited - Ages 12-15, Weight: 170 lbs. or more.

Junior Bantam - Ages 12-14, Weight Range: 120-170 lbs.

Bantam - Ages 13-15, Weight Range: 135-185 lbs.

These strict age and weight requirements ensure that players are matched appropriately in terms of physical development, promoting fairness and safety on the field. It is within the confines of these Pop Warner divisions that the seeds of future NFL Hall of Fame players are sown, nurturing their talents and dedication to the sport. Pop Warner's enduring legacy extends beyond the realm of youth football, as it continues to be a crucial institution that shapes the futures of countless athletes who aspire to excel at the highest levels of the game. The values instilled and the lessons learned during these early years in Pop Warner serve as a solid foundation upon which many NFL careers are built, ultimately contributing to the rich tapestry of American football.

1.2 THE PSYCHOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT BEGINS

During the formative and impressionable years of early childhood, aspiring football players embark on a journey that leaves an indelible mark on their attitudes and lives. Psychologists assert that a child's early experiences play a pivotal role in shaping their emotional and intellectual development. Notably, the period from birth to age six represents a critical juncture when approximately 75 percent of a child's brain development is completed. It is during this window of opportunity that information is absorbed and retained at an astonishing pace, including the cultivation of the athletic skills that lay the groundwork for future excellence as professional football players. From a tender age, football players begin to grasp the fundamental principles of teamwork, discipline, and dedication. Their psychological development within the realm of football commences almost immediately upon setting foot on the field.

These early experiences serve as the cornerstone upon which young boys evolve into young men, instilling essential values that shape their attitudes and bolster their self-esteem. It is during these crucial years that football players come to recognize that they are part of an elite group, fostering a sense of identity and belonging. Coaches play a pivotal role in nurturing these young players, imparting the belief that to be the best, one must first believe in themselves. The ethos of greatness is instilled through the crucible of hard work, a lesson learned early in pursuing football excellence. Many of these young athletes internalize the fundamental teachings and life lessons, incorporating them into their very personalities. This transformative process may manifest in various ways, as some players adopt a Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde duality, while others channel this transformation to fuel their drive toward greatness.

In the world of football, this period of growth and development represents a profound initiation into a unique brotherhood. The lessons learned on the gridiron extend far beyond the boundaries of the field, becoming integral components of these young players' character and identity. It is here, amidst the camaraderie and challenges of the sport, that the seeds of ambition, resilience, and determination are sown, setting the stage for remarkable journeys of personal and athletic growth. Welcome to the world of football, where the early years serve as the crucible in which young minds and bodies are forged, and the lessons learned become the bedrock upon which future greatness is built.

1.3 VYGOTSKY THEORY ON PSYCHOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT THAT CORRELATES WITH FOOTBALL PLAYERS

In the world of sports, the transformation of personalities in ball players is a topic that has fascinated and perplexed both experts and fans alike. This transformation, often not entirely positive, has sparked debates that revolve around the eternal question: of nature versus nurture. Do these changes in personality come naturally, as a result of inherent traits, or are they nurtured and influenced by external factors such as society, peers, and the environment? To shed light on this complex issue, we turn to the insights of some of the world's foremost experts in psychology. One of the most influential figures in the field of psychology, Lev Vygotsky, presented a compelling theory known as the Sociocultural theory. Vygotsky's theory places a significant emphasis on the role of adults and peers in shaping an individual's learning and development. It also explores the profound impact of cultural beliefs and attitudes on the process of instruction and learning. According to Vygotsky, the development of every function in a child's cultural development occurs first on a social level, before being internalized at an individual level. In other words, higher functions, including aspects of personality and behavior, originate from actual relationships between individuals. This theory highlights the critical role that society plays in an individual's development, suggesting that the environment and social interactions have a profound influence on one's personality.

Another prominent psychologist, B.F. Skinner offered a theory focused on the interplay between behavior and the environment. Skinner contended that an individual's behavior is largely shaped by their learning experiences within their environment. This perspective underscores the significance of observable factors, such as the environment itself and how individuals behave within that environment, in understanding human behavior.

In practical terms, this means that the people surrounding ball players, including coaches, teammates, fans, and family members, contribute significantly to the formation of their personalities. They help shape the individuals these players grow to be, both on and off the field. The beliefs, values, and behaviors exhibited by those in their immediate surroundings can mold their attitudes, egos, and lifestyles.

Over the years, discussions surrounding ball players' attitudes, egos, and lifestyles have ignited passionate debates in various forums. The public's curiosity about NFL players has grown into a national obsession, often focusing on issues like egos, violence, and entitlement. These traits, deemed undesirable by many, are not inherent; rather, they are learned behaviors. NFL players who develop these traits have been shaped by their environment and the people who have influenced them throughout their lives.

The debate between nature and nurture continues, but the consensus among experts suggests that both factors play a significant role in shaping the personalities of ball players. The transformation from a young, aspiring athlete to a professional football player is a complex journey influenced by a myriad of social, cultural, and environmental factors. Understanding this interplay between nature and nurture is essential for unraveling the mysteries of personality development in the world of sports.

Chapter 2: The Athelete Becomes Royalty

2.1 A STAR IS FORMED

It is undeniable that the attitudes often displayed by football players can be attributed to learned behaviors that take root from an early age. This behavior, often perceived as arrogance, is not inherent but rather cultivated by the society in which these athletes are raised. The journey of a football player's development is influenced by a unique set of circumstances that contribute to their attitudes. From the outset of their athletic journey, football players receive special treatment. Society, particularly in the context of American football, plays a significant role in shaping their behavior. Football, as America's favorite sport, places young players on a pedestal from their early years, starting in the Pop Warner league and continuing through college.

The adoration and attention that football players receive are substantial. Coaches, family, friends, and even strangers attend games and enthusiastically chant their names. Cheerleaders rally behind them, and stadiums are filled with fans on game days. This constant exposure to admiration and adulation naturally fosters feelings of superiority and entitlement. For many talented players, fame and popularity begin to burgeon before they even reach junior high school. As they progress into high school, the level of attention and special treatment escalates. The concept of being catered to reaches new heights of prominence. This phenomenon is not merely theoretical; it is experienced firsthand by football players.

During their high school years, athletes often enjoy privileges that set them apart from their peers. They can attend school functions without charge, and teachers frequently provide them with extra attention and leniency. These educators understand the demands of a rigorous athletic schedule and offer additional support to ensure that their academic progress remains on track. The contrast in treatment becomes even more apparent during their senior year. Some teachers and coaches go to great lengths, even personally ensuring that players arrive at school on time and are present daily. The sacrifices made by these mentors are invaluable and further enhance the perception of being special. Even in the school cafeteria, football players often receive more food or complimentary meals, reinforcing the notion that they are unique and deserving of preferential treatment.

The allure of being catered to in every aspect of life becomes a reality for successful football players, solidifying their attitudes of entitlement and superiority. These attitudes are not solely a result of individual traits but are a consequence of the societal adulation and special treatment that they have received throughout their journey in the world of football. It is evident that the attitudes displayed by football players are largely shaped by the society in which they are raised and the unique circumstances of their athletic careers. Understanding this societal influence is crucial for addressing the complexities of player behavior and working towards a more balanced and grounded approach to sports development.

2.1 THE EXPECTATIONS GET WORSE

As a football player progresses to the next level in his career, the expectations of special treatment continue to mount. This transition from high school to the collegiate level is a pivotal moment in an athlete's life, characterized by heightened attention and anticipation. In this phase, the athlete finds himself at the center of a whirlwind of recognition, transforming from an ordinary high school student into a rising star in the world of football. This shift in status and expectations warrants careful examination. High school serves as the initial stage where the athlete's talents come under the spotlight. Scouts from colleges around the country begin attending games, keenly observing the player's performance. The athlete becomes a sought-after prospect, with top colleges extending offers of full athletic scholarships. The allure of higher education, coupled with the opportunity to showcase their skills on a bigger stage, marks a significant turning point.

The player's newfound status doesn't go unnoticed in his local community. In