Q&A WITH DREW NORMAN
Buckeye background: A graduate of Indian Valley High School in Gnadenhutten, Ohio, Norman joined Ohio State's program in 2002 and eventually became the team's starting longsnapper.Today: Works as a personal trainer at High Intensity Training in central Ohio.
Why did you decide to walk on at Ohio State?
I had some interest from Mount Union and Muskingum College after high school, but not much past that. My high school coach said he'd never seen a longsnapper like me and thought Ohio State might be a good fit. I wasn't sure I could play at that level, but I just figured I'd roll the dice and see what happens.
How was your transition to college life?
The biggest adjustment was the day-to-day stuff. I was a valedictorian in high school and things came easy to me. When I got to college, I really didn't know how to study, and balancing that and practice was difficult. Plus, that first quarter I took a heavier course load than I should have, so that was a challenge. It took me a good quarter to get a handle on picking up the key points and figuring out the best time to do my work.
Walk-ons don't get to participate in all of the same activities as scholarship players. Was that a motivation for you?
Probably. Training table, being a part of the travel team, those are things you have to earn. At first, you are happy to be there and be a part of the team. After that, your competitiveness kicks in and you want to play. After my first year I figured I have four years left and I want the coaches to think that I was the best backup long snapper they'd ever seen.
What helped you get noticed by coaches?
I'd say probably my work ethic. You hear all the time about the guy who wears his hard hat and just brings his lunch pail to work every day. I'd like to think I was that way. I always spent extra time in the weight room and I always did well on the conditioning test. If they ever needed volunteers for anything, I was willing to help.
Who helped with your transition to the team?
Definitely Kyle Andrews, the starting longsnapper when I got here. Kyle was a walk-on, too, and I really appreciated his demeanor and the fact that he took the time to listen to my questions. Sometimes, when a guy comes in at your position it's easy for that guy to look at the new guy as a threat. I never felt that from Kyle; he was like a big brother to me. Even after he graduated he always called to see how I was doing. I'm really indebted to him.
What are some of your most memorable moments playing?
My first snap at the Alamo Bowl in 2004 was a big one. I will never forget the look on my mom's face. It's like, ‘Wow, it's finally here.' Senior day against Michigan was also special. To run through the Tunnel of Pride, shake coach Tressel's hand and see my dad there with a tear in his eye was special. Then you see those winged helmets walking by and you're just ready to go out and hit somebody.
