All-American QB throws for Colts at private tryout
Liz Klimas
Issue date: 4/17/08 Section: Sports
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"That's all I want, an opportunity," Mark, quarterback for the Chargers and a senior, said. "I think I could lead, I am smart enough and I'm ready."
After returning to Hillsdale Wednesday night, Nicolet said he spent the majority of his tryout in the hospital for a variety of tests, and only 25 minutes throwing.
"It was good to be down there and I am also glad to be back at school and back in a routine," he said, including all that's left to do is wait until the NFL draft at the end of April.
Charger head football coach Keith Otterbein said Mark's drive and attention to detail prepared him for the NFL.
"His thoroughness has always separated him from the rest of the guys," Otterbein said. "Mark can have fun … but when it's time to take care of business he is able to focus and do that."
Mark began tryouts for the NFL when he had the honor of playing in the Cactus Bowl in Kingsville, Texas. He later attended Pro-days at Eastern Michigan University and Central Michigan University. At Central, Mark was the only quarterback present, which he said was a "great position for me to be in."
Mark said each of the 32 NFL teams is allotted 20 private tryouts, and being recognized by the Colts is not only an honor but also could interest other teams in his ability.
Larry Nicolet, Mark's father, said he has been "floating on a cloud" throughout the entire process, and has been accused of being more excited than Mark, who began playing in the third grade under his father's coaching.
"I know what Archie Manning must go though every Sunday," Larry said.
Mark said his girlfriend Meagan Drew, a junior, has been a rock for him through the process, helping him with perspective. Drew, however, accredits Mark's attitude to his Christian faith.
"His faith has been predominant," Drew said. "He has trusted and relied on that."
"He has the strongest faith of any person I have ever known," Larry said.
Both Otterbein and Larry think Mark's success will be positive for the Charger football program, bringing credibility and exposure.
"I think it shows, there can be another game after Hillsdale, and Hillsdale is not too small to be recognized," Larry said.
From now until the NFL draft on April 26 and 27, all Mark can do is wait.
"It's a great thing to watch your kid work his butt off to achieve a dream come true," Larry said.
"My summer plans are completely dependent on what happens April 27," Mark said. "I have always thought about [going into the NFL], and I think with not only God's help but constant a level of work, I can achieve that."
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