Position Profile Series Position: Offensive Tackle (Left) Player: Robin Grove September 10, 2003 What is most enjoyable about playing your position: I like being behind the scenes, but still an important part of whatever I am involved in. Most people hardly even see offensive linemen (well, not literally, we are usually the largest players on the team) because they are watching the ball. There is also no stat for linemen, nothing to keep track of, so in this sense offensive linemen are invisible. We are still a very important part of the team, nearly half of the players on the field at any given time are linemen. I would have to say that the thing I like most about being a tackle is the instant when I throw a good down block or trap block and the ball carrier gets big yardage. Knowing that I opened up the hole or that the line gave our QB all the time in the world is very satisfying to me. It is such a rush to put defenders on their back, they are used to being the ones doing the hard hitting. Most defensive players don't expect that from a lineman, particularly when it happens down field (our wing-t offense is what allows the line to have a chance to make a real impact on a play). I remember one game against Santa Rosa at home, when I leveled two different linebackers in the course of one play! They were not't expecting to be hit by a big lineman 20 yards down field and I got the drop on them. It was one of the biggest rushes I have ever felt! I don't need stats to be appreciated because I get all of the thanks I need from our backs and even other linemen. We are so close and supportive of one another that when someone (anyone, from FB's to receivers) throws a good block there are at least a couple of players there to tell them great job when they come off of the field. What are some tips to being successful at playing your position: The biggest tip I can give anyone trying to become a better linemen is never give up! Never stop learning and trying to better yourself. You'd be surprised at how many people take themselves out of contention. There have been many players who were better prepared, more talented or in better shape than I was when I first started. Many of them are not on the team because they gave up and cut themselves. I have also come to be a big believer in watching game tape. I can see exactly what I did wrong on a play and when I am successful I can see what I did right. On the line communication is key, especially with your guard and center. I cannot stress this enough! I am always talking with the line to get a feeling of how we can improve our play. As far as the physicality of the game, the best tip is be aggressive and don't show fear. I am constantly surprised at how much of the game of football is mental. Go at the block like there is no tomorrow, no next play. Picture yourself hitting through the person and the target is their back. When I miss blocks it is normally because I let up on the other person. You are much more likely to get hurt if you are going half speed and the person who hits the hardest usually doesn't't get hurt. The absolute best thing about being a tackle is playing for the Sirens! We have our problems just as every team does, from fund-raising to getting fans in the stands. But what makes it all worthwhile is being out there with my teammates and coaches! Back