Countdown Begins

Starting tonight and possibly into Saturday, JC Tretter ’13 could be in for a dramatic life turn.

If the National Football League Draft beginning at 8 p.m. beckons, he will instantly go from Big Red football star to professional athlete.

Kevin Boothe '05 gets it.

The New York Giants left guard and Cornell Hotel School graduate was in the same holding pattern seven years ago.

In an interview this month, Boothe shared an insider's view of the process facing Tretter for the next three days. The nationally televised draft continues through Saturday in New York City’s Radio City Music Hall.

Here are questions posed to Boothe, an Oakland Raider in his first NFL season, and his answers:

Any tips for JC on waiting out the big event?
"Don't do what I did. I sat around and watched every pick. I've told him to do something to keep busy. Don't worry, you won't miss the call."

Can you describe the tension of waiting for the news that would change your life?
"It was definitely exciting. I was anxious because I had no idea where I would end up. When I received the call from Oakland, it was a relief that the wait was over. Then, when I saw my name on television, it was euphoric."

Bloggers are saying that JC, at 307 pounds, won't be ready for the NFL in his first season due to size and level of college competition.
"I ended up playing a lot my rookie year. There will be an adjustment in skill, strength and speed, but I am sure JC can handle it. The quicker you adjust, the quicker you play."

JC would be the second Cornell player in 16 years to be drafted. Carrying Cornell's name into the NFL -- what was that like for you?
"There are not many of us in the league. I take a lot of pride in being in such a small group. I'm looking forward to welcoming JC into the group."

The professional demands of the NFL … what can JC expect?
"Intellectually, he will be fine. He's done the hard work at Cornell. JC will pick up the playbook quickly, and will be able to focus on the physical aspect of the NFL."

At George Washington University, you are working on an MBA. How do you do it?
"There is plenty of down time after the season, so I figured, why not take classes?"

JC expects his draft would come in rounds four through seven on Saturday. Any parting words?
"To play in the NFL from the Ivy League is a tremendous accomplishment. I look forward to seeing JC have a long and successful career in the NFL. I'll be rooting for him, unless he is playing the Giants. Then again, he could be my teammate. We'll see!"