Old School Shark

Andi Dupper
Wednesday May 7, 2008

“If your interested in something press the gas and go as far as you can.” said Carl Greenwood. On May 8, Greenwood will graduate from Del Mar College’s Physical Therapy Program. On May 10, Greenwood will be playing Defensive Back for the Corpus Christi Sharks as they battle to improve there 2-3 standing in the af2. 

In discussing the balancing act between school and practice and games Greenwood says it’s an advantage for him. He’s become more disciplined on the field and in school. “I’m at the clinic from 8 until 5; I finish up and get on the field for practice and I keep myself up to speed.” Greenwood said.

At 36, Greenwood has earned the nickname old-school from his team mates. “I hear them (teammates) say, listen to old-school and it’s all good.” Greenwood says he’s learned a lot from coaches around the AFL and NFL. He was nosey, he wanted to learn and develop into a solid contributor on teams.

The home opener for the Sharks was a showcase for Greenwoods talent. The game ended in 61-54 victory over division rivals, Rio Grande Valley Dorados. Greenwood was on the starting line up. He and the rest of the defense frustrated a strong Dorados offense through out the game. The Sharks win was the first in franchise history over the Dorados.

Greenwood graduated from UCLA with a bachelors degree in sociology. During his time at UCLA he played four seasons of football. As a freshman he earned the All-American and All-Pac 10. After graduating in 1994, Greenwood spent time in the NFL with the NY Jets and the Green Bay Packers from 1995-1997. From 1999 until 2004, he found himself playing for various teams in the AFL.

Greenwood was interested in building his physique in the eighth grade. He started developing his knowledge of the human body in the eighth grade. “I learned early on about genetics.” said Greenwood. He realized he was never going to develop the physique of a body builder so he fine tuned his performance to track and football.

During his football career he noticed how happy the sports therapists were, how easy there job was. “I was brighter than them” Greenwood said. “I’ve always wanted to help people.” Each day brings excitement for Greenwood in the clinics. “I am wowed by being able to help people regain their function… being a part of that… improving the physical performance of the human body.”

After graduation, Greenwood will finish out the season with the Sharks. “I’ll continue to hold up my end… a solid contributor” said Greenwood. His career as a professional football player will come to an end in July, pending playoffs, and he’ll begin his career in San Antonio as a Physical Therapist.