sportsjabber.net

CC: My parents helped me to become the person I am today. The kept me level headed and focused on school and sports. My father attended every game I’ve played in since I started playing when I was 7, including all of my college games. He helped me to not get discouraged on my mistakes and to do better the next play. Also, my first football coach, Frank Mambuca. He saw my talent as a young boy and set the right foundation for my future success.

BW: What about on the field? What player or players did you try to model your game after?

CC: BARRY SANDERS, WALTER PAYTON, THURMAN THOMAS, OJ SIMPSON

BW: Coming out of high school, what was the recruiting process like, and why did you choose Stony Brook?

CC: Coming out of High School, I was not a highly recruited prospect, similar to the draft process now. Early on, I received great interest from James Madison University ; I even verbally committed to them but in the end, they decided not to go through with recruiting me. That left me in a bind, but then I went on my first visit to Stony Brook and I was sold on the opportunity to play right away, and the new development of their football program.

BW: At your pro day, you put up some very impressive numbers. What steps did you take in order to prepare for your pro day?

CC: I withdrew from my last semester of college so I can be dedicated full time in preparing myself for the chance to play in the NFL. I attended Parisi Combine Training School in Fairlawn , NJ . I was there for 8 week. I had 2 two hour sessions, 5 days a week. We worked strictly on the fundamentals and technique for my pro day. That training gave me the knowledge and confidence for my big day.

BW: I know you have, and still do, train at Parisi Speed School . What is it like there? How intense is the training?

CC: I attended the Parisi Speed School in NJ for the combine training, my trainer was Martin Rooney. That training was more technical and repetitive instead of draining and exhausting. Now, I regularly attend the Parisi Speed School in Islip , NY where I train with Britton Kelley. Now this training is more intense and prepares you to be ready physically for the football field. Other players from Stony Brook also come there and we push each other to be greater. But for the most part, Britton helps me by pushing me to those limits an athlete should be pushed to in order to achieve their maximum goals.

BW: Coming from a smaller school, how much harder is it to make a lasting impression on NFL scouts?

CC: Coming from a small school, scouts tend to overlook you because of the lack of exposure during your college career. This is why I always made it my business to have outstanding numbers so that eventually I would be able to spark the interest of NFL scouts. Coming from a small school, you have to do everything that much better then the players from the big schools. I try to take advantage of every opportunity because of this.

BW: What was your favorite football team growing up? How would it feel to play for that team?

CC: I really didn’t have a favorite team I just enjoyed watching a good game. I would love to go somewhere nice and warm, like Miami , Atlanta , San Diego . A change of weather would be nice. But really, I don’t have a preference. Any team that gives me an opportunity to play is a great team to me! I’ll make sure that the teams that don’t draft me will regret it.

BW: How would you describe the emotions leading up to the NFL draft?

CC: I have mixed feelings. I’m nervous and excited knowing everything is less then a month away. All of what I’ve worked for and dreamed for since I was 7 years old is coming down to this. Being able to achieve my dream is the most thrilling opportunity ever.

BW: I, personally, feel that you could be a great back at the next level, and I compared you to a Brian Westbrook style. Who would you compare yourself to?

CC: I actually believe the same. I’m able to run between the tackles or have the speed to go on the outside and be able to catch passes, either in the back field or even at the slot position. Just like Westbrook, I’m a well rounded athlete.

BW: If you could say anything to kids out there that want to follow in your footsteps, what would the lesson be?

CC:I would say that dreams live on only if you let them. If you give up on your dreams then they will never come true. Always put 100% into your dreams and never let people deter you from what you want in life.