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Diary of a rookie

Men's Fitness, August, 2005 by Shaun Cody

SHAUN CODY IS A FORMER PAC-10 DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR, a first-year tackle with the Detroit Lions, and the star of Spike TV's new reality show, Super Agent, about life in the NFL. Now he's also an MF contributor. Here, the first installment from the front lines of his rookie season.

day 1

Well, I survived my first day in a pro training camp--and wow, was that ever an eye-opening experience. The first thing I noticed was the speed. These guys are 350 pounds and they move like cats! Also, you are expected to know what you are doing out there, that's for sure. This is my job now, and I have to perform or I'm going to be off the team. Big change from college.

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day 3

I haven't screwed up too much, but during pass-rushing drills, I kind of slipped on the turf and tripped over a guy's leg--it looked like I got pancaked. Coach [Steve] Mariucci came over to me real quick and got in my face, yelling "Stay up in practice!" That was an embarrassing moment. Actually, though, everyone has been really nice. No rookie hazing at all, but I guess that might change once the season gets rolling.

day 8

So far meeting the players was probably the best moment for me. Joey Harrington, Shaun Rogers--all these guys I've watched on TV. I have to admit it's easy to get a little star-struck.

day 17

Luckily I finished shooting Super Agent before camp. Only a couple of guys on the team know about it, and of course they give me a hard time, calling me "Hollywood" and all. I met the Chiefs' star, Tony Gonzalez, on the set of the show--he's the narrator. He's a really great guy, almost like a mentor to me now. When we get out on the field, though, it's all business. I'm sure I'll say hello to him before the game starts, but once the pads are on, it's game time. Believe me, it'll still be a dogfight.

day 24

That should do it for now. I'll get back to you after July's camp. Oh, one last thing: Coach doesn't know yet about the Spike show, so do me a favor and don't say anything, huh? Hopefully it won't be the feature presentation on the first day of the next training camp.

Bowl games

See Shaun Cody and the other College stars in action in ABC's new commemorative-edition DVDS of the 2005 Orange Bowl, Sugar Bowl, Fiesta Bow and Rose Bowl. You Can buy them in stores--or better yet, win a free copy from us! E-mail us at DVDCONTEST @MENSFITNESS.COM and tell us about your favorite football memory of all time. The 10 people with the best answers win the DVD 4-pack.

Diary of a rookie

Men's Fitness, August, 2005 by Shaun Cody

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