Okay, here’s my take on the XFL tryouts, written in a personal, blog-style format, heavily focused on verbs and actions, and keeping it super casual:
So, I decided to check out these XFL tryouts for 2024. I’d been feeling that itch, you know? That “maybe I could still play” itch. I’m no spring chicken, but I figured, why not give it a shot? It all started with finding the info online. I searched and scoured the internet for any shred of details about dates, locations, and what I needed to do to register.
Getting Ready
First thing, I hit the gym, hard. I mean, really hit it. I dusted off my old workout routines and added some new stuff I found on YouTube. I focused on speed and agility drills – gotta be quick, right? I sprinted, jumped, lifted, and generally pushed myself way harder than I had in years. I even changed my diet, cutting out the junk food (mostly) and loading up on protein and veggies. My body complained, a lot, but I just kept pushing.
The Day Of
The day finally arrived. I woke up ridiculously early, choked down some oatmeal, and double-checked my gear. Cleats? Check. Gloves? Check. Mouthguard? Check. I drove to the location, heart pounding in my chest. I parked, grabbed my bag, and walked towards the field, taking in the scene. There were tons of guys there, all shapes and sizes, all with that same hungry look in their eyes. I signed in, got my number, and found a spot on the sidelines to stretch.
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I warmed up my arm. I had to throw a ball to get my body ready.
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I observed other guys. I wanted to size up the competition.
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I listened to coaches. They are yelling, barking orders.
The Drills
Then the drills started. We ran 40-yard dashes, shuttled back and forth, jumped for vertical height, and caught passes. I gave it everything I had, sprinting until my lungs burned, diving for balls, and trying to impress the scouts. I fumbled a couple of times, got up, and kept going. I definitely felt my age during some of those drills, but I refused to quit.
The Aftermath
After it was all over, I was completely exhausted. I grabbed some water, collapsed on the grass, and just breathed. Did I make it? Honestly, I don’t know. I left with the field without any offer, but with the information that I received an email notification.
I waited, checked, and recheked my phone. I hope that my dream comes true.
But I tried. I showed up, I worked hard, and I put myself out there. And that, in itself, felt like a victory. Now, I’m just waiting to see if I get that email…
