kcchiefs.com wrote:
Belcher’s Drive to Succeed Helps Team and Self
Posted Nov 21, 2012
Reid Ferrin
Chiefs Insider
KCChiefs.com
Email @KCChiefs_Reid
Ever wanted a job so bad you could taste it? You know, the dream job that you think about day and night, hoping that it becomes a reality? Chiefs LB Jovan Belcher has been in those shoes, too. The four-year starter at Maine went undrafted in the 2009 rookie class, an obstacle that could have derailed his dream, had it not been for one thing.
“You just have to be hungry,” Belcher said. How hungry? (gratuitous nod towards Turkey day) “It had to be like taking my plate on Thanksgiving. You have to want it more than the next person. You have to just refuse to be denied.”
Belcher’s undeniable path to the NFL includes time at West Babylon High School (NY), where the former linebacker, offensive tackle, nose guard and fullback also wrestled, which he says helps his game. That cornucopia of skills (second gratuitous nod towards Turkey day…Sorry, I couldn’t help it!) has certainly paid off.
“Just being versatile. I think it helped build my whole (just) mental mentality, to never give up and just keep fighting and wrestling was a big part of it and it still is.”
From the football fields and wrestling mats to the practice squad and special teams of the Chiefs, Belcher pursued his dream job like he now does ball carriers on Sundays, with relentless passion. And on May 8, 2009, the Jovan Belcher dream that began in West Babylon, NY became reality.
Four years later, Belcher easily recalls and describes his first NFL play. “Fast. Very fast.” Not too fast for the 25-year old, who has started every game since the 2011 season and this year has recorded 38 tackles, five assists and one pass defensed.
In the holiday spirit, Belcher gave thanks to those who helped make his dream of playing in the NFL come true. “First and foremost, God. Family and friends just keeping me focused, coaches and just everyone.”
Sure to test that hunger and versatility will be the Denver Broncos, who are in town on Sunday for a noon kickoff. However, Belcher may satiate that appetite as he did the last time he faced off against these divisional foes at Arrowhead, totaling a career high 11 tackles, eight of them solo
let's be fair.... he did thank his coach/GM right b4 he blew his brains out in front of them. well-raised guy, IMHO.
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Curious Hair wrote:
Les Grobstein's huge hog is proof that God has a sense of humor, isn't it?