Marcus Brown '11 Recruiting Profile

My name is Marcus Brown. I want to graduate from college, and I want to play college football. I have lived in the small town of Mt. Dora, Florida and the vicinity all of my life. My childhood has been different than most in that the State of Florida removed me from my family when I was seven years old. The rights of my biological parents were terminated, and I have been in foster care, in the custody of the State, ever since. Except for a half sister, I have almost no relationship with any of my biological relatives. I often think about how it would have been to have grown up in a "normal" family. However, looking back I realize that I would not change a thing even if I could. I have a foster mom who cares for me and provides for me. I have lived with her for seven years. I live in a good neighborhood with small neighborhood schools that I have walked to for years. I have had many coaches and teachers who have mentored and helped me. Although I have not enjoyed the material things that my friends and classmates have over the years, I know that I have the necessities. I also know that there are many employees of the Florida Department of Children and Families who care about me and my future. My upbringing has made me very independent and built tremendous character. Nothing much intimidates me, and I work best under pressure and stress. I truly believe that there is nothing that can happen in a classroom or on a football field that is any tougher than the hurdles that I have already cleared in life. I fell in love with the game of football six years ago. It is my passion. It has given me a sense of purpose when sometimes I had none. I want to play for as long as I am able. My statistics are posted on this web site so there is no use repeating them here. I know my strengths and my weaknesses. I believe my strengths far outweigh my weaknesses, and I am committed to working hard to improve in areas that need improvement. I can't run a 4.3 40, and I can't jump 40 inches high. But I am a talented wide receiver. I am a great route runner, I can catch the ball, and I know what to do after I catch it. In addition to athletic talent, I'll bring character to a college football program. I hear stories about athletes who waste their talent. They go to college and won't follow the rules. They don't want to practice. They don't want to go to class. They have no character. I will very much appreciate the opportunity a college coach gives me. I will go to class because I want a college degree. I will lead by example. When the game is on the line, I'll want the ball. All I ask in return is a college education and the opportunity to play for a serious football program with a commitment to winning. Because of my circumstances, I have no family or geographic ties. I will play anywhere in the United States. I prefer to go to a school where I have a realistic opportunity to be a starting wide receiver for at least three years. Additionally, like many players my age, I dream to play in the NFL. But I know those opportunities go to only a few. I'll work as hard as possible so that there are no regrets, but if it doesn't happen, I want a college degree that has value. Thus, the school I attend must have a strong academic program, and a commitment to academics from the football coaches. My name is Marcus Brown. I pledge to all of America's college football coaches that if you consider talent, ability, leadership, commitment, work ethic and character, you will have a difficult time finding a better all-around student-athlete than me. I'll be an asset to your program, and will make you a solemn promise that you will never regret giving me a place on your team. I would appreciate your consideration.