PLAYER PROFILE: ROCCO CAMERON
We asked U16 WR Rocco Cameron some questions about his transition from other sports to American Football to find out some challenges he faced, any skills that transferred over and what makes the sport so unique.
Rocco has been a standout since switching sports.
What inspired you to transition from your previous sport to American football with the Northants Knights?
The thing that inspired me to play was mainly because one of my friends (Jayden) was playing but as soon as I got my hands on a American Football, I loved it.
How has your experience in your previous sport helped you adapt to the unique challenges of American football?
My soccer experience helped me adapt to the unique challenges of American football because of my footwork. With soccer, of course, it is all played with your feet so it helped me with my footwork which I then took to American football in my routes.
Can you share some of the key differences you've noticed between your previous sport and American football, both in terms of gameplay and training?
The key difference for me in terms of training is that American football is a lot tougher. By that, I mean more hard work, aggression, and competition. In terms of game play the big difference is fitness. You need to be fit for soccer but in American football, you can not take your foot off the gas as you are constantly running, blocking, or hitting someone.
What position did you play in your previous sport, and how does it compare to the position you currently play in American football?
In soccer, I was a centre-back. it compares with my new position, which is wide receiver because as a center back you need a lot of aggression when winning the ball or making a tackle, and as a wide receiver aggression is key to winning the ball in the air.
Did you face any initial challenges when learning the rules and strategies of American football? How did you overcome them?
I faced a lot of challenges when starting up, mainly my route running and I couldn’t get the hang of them. I overcame this by putting in extra work in and out of training. This included watching videos of the routes and then going out to practice them.
Are there any skills or techniques from your previous sport that you find particularly useful in American football?
The main skill that I found helpful was footwork. It helped me adapt to American football quicker by having fast feet and faster routes.
Could you describe a memorable moment or game that made you feel proud of your decision to switch to American football?
My memorable moment has to be when I scored 4 touchdowns in a game. It really does make you very proud of yourself and I’m glad that I made the switch to American football.
What advice would you give to other athletes considering a transition to American football with the Northants Knights or a similar team?
My advice to any athlete considering a transition to American football is JUST DO IT! Do not be afraid to have a shot at something different. For me, it put me in shape and helped my fitness increase massively. Aside from physically, it helps you mentally. It helped me control my anger and emotions on the field. Like I said, don’t be afraid because it can help you in so many ways.
In your opinion, what makes American football with the Northants Knights a unique and exciting sport to be a part of?
What makes football with the Knights so unique is that we work as hard as possible. We put in work 2-3 times a week for many hours. The competition between the lads is crazy but we’re also one big family. When I first came to training I was nervous but as soon as I got to work it was like I had been a part of the team for years.
This off-season we will continue to highlight young athletes and their stories.