Quarterback of the Future
Mike Florio
Paperback, 6x9 in, 396 pages
Press Box Books, March 2001
ISBN:
1587360292
Description
Issues of race relations and spirituality come together in a fast-paced football tale that whisks two modern-day college players -- one white, one black -- to the year 1960. Lost and alone, they try out for the local professional team. Along the way, they realize just how much the game, and society, have changed.
With drama woven into every page and humor sprinkled throughout, Quarterback of the Future is an engaging thought-provoker that leaves an impression lasting long after the final page is turned.
About the author
Mike Florio is the Editor of Profootballtalk.com, one of the most successful independent sports sites on the Internet. Florio practices law in his home state of West Virginia, where he resides with his wife, Jill, and their son, Alex.
Excerpt
"One second," Lonnie Gordon said, and he jogged toward Buddy Parker. "There must have been a misunderstanding. I play quarterback."
Bobby Layne covered his mouth with his left hand and turned away. Some of the other players laughed openly. "Lon, I don't know how they play the game where you're from," Parker said, cupping his hand gently against the back of Lonnie's neck. "But this is the NFL. And in the NFL, you won't play quarterback. Now, that's just the way it is."
"But why?" Lonnie steppd back from Parker's grasp. "That's my position. I know it inside and out. And I can throw the ball. Just let me show you."
Parker's expression turned grim and he spoke with firm authority in his voice. "Look, let me be real honest with you. You've got to know your place here. The league went through a pretty long stretch where it had no coloreds at all. They still don't let them play down in Washington." Parker stepped closer to Lonnie. "So feel lucky that you're getting a shot, and don't -- I repeat, don't -- be particular about what position you play."
Lonnie refused to give in. "What's it going to hurt to give me a chance? I can --"
"There ain't no colored quarterbacks in this league! Period. That's not your decision, and that's not my decision."
