Behind the Facemask: Thomas Finnie
June 16, 2011
CORAL GABLES, Fla.–There are moments and decisions in every person’s life that shape who they eventually become. Every path is different, but for these student-athletes, they have all eventually led to Coral Gables. Their stories in their words…
Thomas Finnie | Defensive Back | Freshman | Miami, Fla.
If I wasn’t playing football, I would still be in college trying to get a degree. I’m studying business. After football, I want to own my own properties or business.
The best advice I ever received is whatever doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. My father always told me that. That keeps me motivated.
If I could wake up anywhere in the world tomorrow, it would probably be Hawai`i. I’ve never been there.
I secretly wish I could wake up 20 years from now and be retired, in a big mansion.
The U is gonna have its swag back this year.
Coach Williams is a funny guy. We’re gonna have a fun season. From the teaching, to the classroom, to the field, I try to stay serious but in my head, I can’t help but laugh sometimes. He’s funny. I’ve learned so much from him.
College football is more serious, there are people’s jobs on the line. Basically whatever they tell you is the exact way they want you do it. They expect you to do it their way.
It was hard to transition into college football. But it doesn’t matter if I like it or not, I have to do it regardless. I’m second on the depth chart now, right under a fifth-year senior, so that’s not bad. I’m still working though, it’s not too late to be back on first team.
Something I’ve never understood has to be calculus and math.
I’m in the real world now, and there’s no running back to mommy and daddy anymore. I loved that I stay close to home though, because I still have my parents when I need them.
My mom‘s food just keeps calling me back, it makes me want to come home every weekend. Her ham, fried rice, rib tips and string beans are my favorite.
Nobody knows that I can play tennis. I played in middle school.
I really want to be the one to bring my family up to par; I want to be the one who makes it out. I want to make my mother so proud, and that’s what I really want to do. I never quit, I never want to give up, because I really want to try to get there.
Make sure to check in for a new Behind the Facemask profile each and everyday in preparation for the Hurricane football season opener. For a review of all past profiles, check out Behind the Facemask Central.
