When Isaiah Groom arrived at UW–Platteville for football tryouts in the fall of 2025, he was well-prepared. Throughout the summer, he followed the workouts the coaches provided, ensuring he stayed in shape. After long shifts at work, he headed straight to the weight room, knowing that training camp would demand even more from him.
Once training camp began, Groom quickly realized how intense college football could be. His days started at 7 a.m. and didn’t wind down until nearly 9:30 p.m. Between lifting sessions, practices, meetings, and film study, there was hardly a moment to rest. He noted that the toughest part wasn’t the physical work—it was the nonstop schedule. For an entire month, there were no breaks.
The competition was fierce as well. When asked who the best player at tryouts was, Groom found it difficult to choose a single player. Everyone there had talent, which motivated him to keep pushing himself. One coach gave him advice that resonated: “Put your head down and work.” Isaiah carried that mindset through every drill.
Looking back, he said he wouldn’t change much about the camp. However, if he could redo one part, he would go back to the pool stretching workout, which was a rare moment when the team could relax and reset before diving back into the grind.
Groom’s tryout experience taught him the effort and discipline it takes to compete at the college level. Through long days, tough competition, and continuous effort, he proved himself ready for the challenge. He did not make the team for the year, and he does not plan to try out for UW-Platteville next year, but the experience was still very valuable for Groom.