Training Days; To Balance Life and Ball
Weeks went on and soon turned into months in Ann Arbor. The beautiful and cool spring time was now that of the usual muggy heat the Central Plains and Northeast were known for as Jayson Butler, a Texan through and through, didn't feel any change onto his body as he walked around the campus of the University of Michigan as he was en route to the athletic facilities to finally meet with his coach, the Super Bowl appearing and former Wolverine signal caller in Jim Harbaugh as well as his trainers and other coaches who'd help mature the former High School State and National Champion not into only an even better wide receiver who could be NFL bound around 2023 if not 2024 but a better man and champion in life. After meeting his roommate, a fellow freshman and teammate in running back Blake Corum, he did whatever laundry needed to be done and made his way to the Wolverines football facility but as he minded his own business he seemed to be in his own little world when suddenly-
*WHACK*
Olivia: OUCH! Hey, watch where you're going dude!
Jayson after dusting himself off, looked down guiltily at the person he had collided into a beautiful and slim blonde who came with brown eyes, due a lack of awareness something he was praised for on the gridiron. But now he was getting chewed out for it since his head was in the clouds.
Jayson: I'm terribly sorry, my head was in the clouds. I don't know if it's the heat bearing down on me or what- you'd think I'd master it by now. Let me help you up, Miss?
Olivia: Dunne- Olivia Dunne.
Jayson: I feel like I should know that name.... aren't you some sort of gymnastics prodigy Instagram keeps raving about?
Olivia: Well, you aren't wrong with the prodigy part. I've been doing gymnastics since I was a little girl, three years young to be exact. I was originally going to commit to LSU-
Jayson: Not a bad choice honestly.
Olivia: Anyway... I was going to commit to the Tigers but once I came here and visited Ann Arbor and the small town charm they had? I was sold on it. So, student-athlete I take it.... I don't know your name.
He laughed as he let go of her hand.
Jayson: Jayson's my full name, I go by Jay or Christian too. Academics are my claim to fame, football is my game, Miss Dunne.
Olivia: Oh my god you're making me feel old as hell. You can just call me Livvy or Liv for short. But the football was kinda obvious for sure.
Jayson: The Polo?
Olivia: No it's the giant dufflebag with the superimposed Jordan logo you've got in your hand there. Jesus, are you going hunting or something?
Jayson: Ha... If I could only stomach the mere of hunting for sport. No I have to meet Coach Harbaugh, get the equipment I requested and get my vitals recorded so they can put it on my player profile on the team website. The bag is just for getting my cleats, my helmet, jerseys and everything else I requested or otherwise a wide receiver is required to get.
Olivia: Impressive, so are you any good?
Jayson: All American 3 years in a row and a State Championship should be testament to my hard work. I would like to think so, but the competition is definitely going to get more intense. They say the SEC and Big Ten are some of the competitive conferences and I'm not going to lie to you, I was nearly this close to committing to LSU as well not only for the history but also the number of legends but then again my dad kinda went here and between my mom attending Texas. Let's just say Michigan has everything I needed to fill my ambitions not to mention a top tier education with the majors I'm looking into.
Olivia: I hear that. Everything is lining up perfectly except what I want to major in. It's either communication or sports management.
Jayson: You got easier than I do honestly Olivia. I honestly have three separate majors, Film and Television, Earth Sciences or Sports Management.
His watch began beeping ever so slightly and his eyes began to bulge out.
Jayson: AHHH SHIT! I'm running late. I gotta get going, Olivia but again truly sorry for you know.... hit sticking you and all. Hopefully we'll have a few classes if fate has its way. But I can't give Coach the wrong impression. Good luck with everything!
He bolted away from the gymnast and fellow freshman as she snuck a glance of his retreating form.
Olivia: Mm. Handsome fella.
(Schembechler Hall)
After having the door opened by a fellow teammate who also had business, he walked into and witnessed the absolute beauty of the recently renovated Schembechler Hall. From the Game Ball Wall to the mural that in bold letters stated "THIS IS MICHIGAN" littered with the program's best moments over the near 145 year history. Reading his text as to see where his coach was at, he heading to wherever this place called the Head Coach Mezzanine was at and once he stopped and saw the man in the flesh. The whistle, the Jordan branded Polo albeit inverted colors so the white was the primary color followed by the maize being the next stuck out color then accented by Navy blue stripes as he wore khakis and Air Jordan Retro 9's in the vein of the university colors.
Jim: So we're in agreement on having the kids watch in on the first jamboree?
His assistant put it down into her notes, scribbling down furiously various dates to prepare for the upcoming season when she quickly locked eyes with one of his newest players and seemingly begged for a reprieve which he picked up on cue.
Jayson: Coach Harbaugh?
He turned around, cracking a small smile as they hugged each other.
Jim: Jayson! How are you doing?
Jayson: Pretty good Sir. Had a little dust up on my end, so I apologize if I'm late.
Jim: No, no, not at all. I've been in coaches meetings, met with a few other players, athletic director on top of beginning the recruiting of next year's class. Lydia, you're all good once you've put those dates in the calendar. After that, take the rest of the night off.
Lydia: Yes Coach and welcome to the Wolverine Family, Jayson.
Jayson: Thank you.
After the late 20-something assistant left coach and athlete, the former quarterback turned to the Allen native.
Jim: You've been handling everything. How has the transition gone from prospect to Michigan student?
Jayson: I love it Coach. Everyone has been just so friendly and it's not because of my status. Like you can tell most if not all of them have pure intentions.
Jim: A big reason why I came back to my old stomping grounds as well. Just the overall friendliness of the community, it's only right we put a competitive product and give this city something to be proud of. Okay, obviously we have toured the facilities when you came here as a senior but now it's time for the moment you've been waiting for.... getting your helmet and equipment. And I see you came prepared like I asked you. Awesome.
Jayson: I only know full go, coach. My brother taught me that.
Jim: That's right, you are related to Chase! How are the he and... girlfriend?
Jayson knew he was confused and holding off on mentioning Alexis by her association not with hostile intent but rather inquiring intent.
Jayson: Chase and Alexis are quite alright. My brother is still adjusting to the reality he's going to be a dad and in turn I'm going to have the most adorable yet royally spoiled niece or nephew. Lexi is a true warrior the way she's kicking pregnancy's ass.
Jim: Well, bring her or him up here whenever you get the chance. Now then to the Mud Room.
Jayson: Yesssssiiirrrrr.
(Equipment Room...)
Jim: Jayson, this is Gary Hazelitt, our equipment manager. Basically think of him as the guy that makes the program go full throttle. It's the little things that tick and he's the man who gets my troops ready for gameday and practice. Gary, this is Jayson, one of newest family members.
The equipment director gave the receiver a firm and sturdy handshake which Jayson returned with eqaul firmness and respect.
Jayson: Strong grip there, Mr. Hazelitt. Much respect.
Gary: Thank you and please no mister. You're going to make me feel older than I already am. Gary or G will do fine. I understand you want to get fitted for gear for the upcoming season, so let's go on get the hard part started with the shoulder pads.
After getting the exact measurements he needed with the additional request of Jayson wanting a back plate to cushion whatever heavy shots he would and could possibly experience during the course of the season, Gary handed him a pair of shoulder pads that, while loose with a few adjustments was tighter than an anaconda showing its true love when it wraps its massive coils around prey. After giving a thumbs up, it was now time for the fun part. The helmet and jersey reveal.
Gary: Alright Jay, when you de-committed from Florida State and announced you had us in your final five, we were already working your jersey in the event you actually committed to us. Now we actually have three numbers for you, pick which one you think fits you the absolute most.
Jayson, after nodding at three sets of the same uniforms just with different numbers with the first being 13, followed by 17 and the lone 80 plus jersey left available, that being jersey number 85.
Jayson: Well two of my favorite receivers wear thirteen and seventeen right now but I know a fellow freshman has the latter on lock.... Ochocinco was undoubtedly my favorite growing up. Damn wait, what am I doing? Our punter wears 17. Yeah I'll take eight to the five.
Gary after filling out the uniform request form handed all the uniforms with eighty five to the newly appointed freshman receiver. As Jayson put the uniform combinations in his bag and saw his last name taped upon the specific shoulder pads he just tried on, they came to the helmet room which had Schutts, Riddell Speedflexes, VICIS spread as far as the eye could see.
Gary: Here we are the helmet glossary or what I like to call the "PrimeTime" room. Now even though Mr. Sanders didn't attend our prestigious school, I'm a man that believes he wants his players and warriors to look good and feel good so that they play good. Go around and look at our catalogue until you see something you like kid.
Jayson: Here's to a successful hunt then.
As he went around and around the room looking at all the protective headgear he landed in the Speedflex section and looked at a particular helmet that had looked recently cleaned with a darkened Jordan visor. After grabbing it and putting on his head, strapping it in he looked at the coach and manager.
Jim: How does it feel?
Jayson: Like a million f'ning bucks. Pardon my French.
Jim: All good, you wouldn't believe how many times your future teammates have said the same thing when trying out their helmets. Alright the final pieces, your gloves and cleats, now these you don't get a limit on, we just ask you take care of them as best you can.
After the process of getting his cleats and gloves, three pairs of each clothing to be exact, he toured the fame Walk of Champions stopping past the Champions mural to the locker room.
Jim: Our last stop, Jayson. The locker room.
Jayson: Done! This one is mine.
Jim: How did you- weren't you just over here?
Jayson: Yeah, your eyes? Were sealed tighter than a kids' envelope going to the North Pole. I'm choosing this one because it's seating is way too comfy. I don't know who owned it last, but they definitely knew how to break it in. Plus it's the closest to the field where we can hear the fans roaring and the band warming up.
Jim: Well since there's no one to object you, you can have that locker. As an added bonus you're sitting next to one of best defensive players in Ojabo so soak up as much knowledge as you can.
Jayson: Haha no doubt.
Jim: Alright follow me.
After a tour including all the other facilities like the nutrition room, the outside practice field and the academic room inside the giant building, Harbaugh discussed where his newest young player was starting on the depth chart and honestly it was promising. Sure he wasn't currently in the starting three but he told his freshman to have an camp impressive enough and that his receivers coach, the offensive coordinator and Jim himself would have no choice but to adjust the depth chart to where the younger brother of a Super Bowl Champion was starting.
Jayson: So it's as I figured? The receiver position is in such a mess right now that there's a chance I can snag the starting spot. Well, then I'm gone eat real good this entire summer. Doesn't matter if it's workouts, 7-on-7's or weights. Ann Arbor will know the overwhelming talent and passion of the Blade of Texas. Coach, I'm going knock the socks off of you and entire staff this entire summer and prove that I deserve to start as a freshman.
His watch began beeping again.
Jayson: Damn I'm sorry I gotta cut this short but Aidan said something about wanting to treat all the incoming freshmen to a movie night. Until next time coach.
He slung his equipment bag over his shoulder, slightly feeling a little heavier than before since most of his new belongings were in said rucksack. He shook hands with his new coach, bidding him farewell for the meanwhile. After driving to the destination his junior teammate had set up, an Golden Corral not far off from campus, he hopped out of the car to see a couple of seniors and juniors waiting outside with the freshman.
Aidan Hutchinson: Jayson, glad you finally made it kid! What took you so long?
He brought in the youngster for a bro hug.
Jayson: Sorry about that Aidan. I was meeting coach and getting my equipment, I would have almost lost track of time had it not been for my trusty watch. Apple don't never be lacking when it comes to their devices honestly.
Aidan: No they don't. Now get on in there and meet your fellow freshmen my guy! The Wolverine Welcome Banquet is about to go down!
After each individual newcomer introduced themselves, Jayson included, everyone got their share of good eating in and despite everything with the pandemic, the restaurant was able to go all in just enough for the football team and since many a senior and juniors weren't available or were enjoying their own respective summer vacations, the buffet style eatery welcomed them with open arms.
Blake Corum: So, the championship rings, explain them if you don't mind it.
Jayson looked back at both his ring fingers.
Jayson: Couple of District Championships rings nothing to write home about. This is the lone state championship we've gotten which was my sophomore year. Could've been a national but we barely missed out and finished third nationally that year.
Blake: Same with me. I was Maryland's Gatorade National Player of the Year. Never had the chance to win any state titles. Hoping to correct that with a national championship and build my NFL stock.
Jayson: Amen to that. So what're your guys major?
Zak Zinter: Kinesiology but I'm planning on majoring in sports management.
Blake: Undecided; though the business program is interesting. What about you, roommate?
Jayson: Same as you Blake. Though I've narrowed it down to three majors, Film, Television, and Media, Sports Management like Zak or Earth Sciences and possibly major in meteorology. Chase some tornadoes and hurricanes while also trimming down on the number lives lost because people aren't prepared.
Aidan: Yo, attention everyone!
Everyone in attendance looked up at Wolverine junior and legacy child.
Aidan: First off, I hope everyone is enjoying the good food and hospitality that Golden Corral has given so be sure to leave these hardworking people a nice tip. Also, to my freshmen teammates welcome to this proud fraternity. Here at Michigan we hold ourselves to high standard but that doesn't mean we don't like to have fun. We're here to put on a show for the hundreds of thousands that pile into the Big House every single Saturday. So let's push each to be great and get to those damned playoffs. People believe we're elite right? I say we prove right this season, no matter what happens!
Everyone roared in approval, clinking cups together as a new age of Wolverine Football was set to begin and for our freshman. He was ready to do some special things in Ann Arbor, Michigan in a effort to make his case as a future NFL prospect.
END OF CHAPTER FOUR!
Couple of A/N'S
1: So yes, I went ahead and decided to make Olivia Dunne a Wolverine. I don't know if I'll put some of the other notable current LSU gymnasts into this story, I'll cross that bridge whenever I come to it.
2: Reason why I chose 85 for Jayson's jersey number is because the original numbers I had in mind were either retired by the university or taken by an actual existing Wolverine hence why he'll be sporting the good 'ol Ochocinco.
3: Since his freshman does indeed occur within the pandemic year, you'll see some elements of that play in like they did in real life... the results of the season might change however since I control the narrative.
Other than that, you all know what to do... read, comment and run me my votes lol... and I'll see you all next chapter.
Bạn đang đọc truyện trên: AzTruyen.Top