What is a "Combine"? The "Combine" is an event that tests a combination of several skills including speed, power, strength, and agility. These skills are used to evaluate an athlete's overall skill level. This event makes it easy for college scouts to see a variety of athletes and for athletes to increase their exposure to several colleges (Division I, II and III) across the nation. Is this the first High School Combine? This is the first High School Combine in the state of Illinois. However, the original idea was developed by David Jones, MS, ATC/L from Jackson Hospital in Alabama. They have had a successful program for the past 4 years. How are players selected? The players were recommended to the combine by their high school coaches and coaches throughout their conference. We marketed the combine to those individuals that each high school coach recommended; however, we have kept this an open event by allowing any junior football player the opportunity to participate in the combine by registering from the information located on our website. How many positions may I try out for? Due to the amount of athletes expected at the combine and the time constraints, we will only allow an athlete to participate in one position agility workout (i.e. If a player plays two positions in high school, the coach will help select his best position for the combine). The variety of drills and skills demonstrated will give college recruiters a true understanding of the player's speed, strength and agility. What is the Cost? The cost of attending the combine is a non-refundable deposit of $40.00. This fee will cover the cost of clothing, selected meals, they get a sports physical good for their senior football year, the privilege of listening to the keynote speaker and the exposure you will receive from the combine. What Colleges will be attending? This is difficult to determine because of the regulations from the NCAA. The combine will take place during the May evaluation period, during which time only two visits per high school is allowed by the NCAA. Due to this restriction, if a high school is represented at the Illinois High School Combine by an athlete, this will be counted towards the allowable visit. Therefore, it is necessary that we know all athletes attending by February 28, 2002. This will allow time for the information to be distributed to all interested college coaches. Who will be doing the testing? The testing and recording will be performed by the rehabilitation and athletic training staff from Decatur Memorial Hospital. Our staff is highly trained and all data will be objective. All tests will be standardized and some special equipment may be brought in to assure accurate results. What tests/skills will be performed? The skills and test are listed on our web site at "Skill Tests - Rules/Procedures".