Defensive Players

Brandon Thurmond, defensive lineman, Arkansas-Pine Bluff, 6-2, 260 pounds

Thurmond used his quickness and strength to become one of the best pass rushers in the FCS. He led the SWAC with 16.5 sacks. Thurmond has a great knack of getting to the quarterback.

Brad Davis, defensive lineman, Elizabeth City State, 6-1, 245 pounds

Davis received Division II All-American honors. It’s not hard to see why he had 15.5 sacks. He also played the run very well with 25.5 tackles for loss of 142 yards. He’s one of the most athletic linemen in the country.

Joseph LeBeau, defensive lineman, Jackson State, 6-1, 245 pounds

LeBeau was one of the top defensive players in the SWAC. He had eight sacks last season. LeBeau is a great pass rusher. He can play the run, too. He had 54 total and 33 solo tackles.

Tim Green, defensive end, Lincoln University, 6-1, 215 pounds

Green was an All-CIAA selection. He had a great season 78 total and 33 solo tackles. He had a chance to participate in the Temple Pro Day last month.

Maurice Bertrand, defensive lineman, Lincoln University, 6-2, 280 pounds

Bertrand has good size and strength. He knows how to swarm to the football. Bertrand played along side of Lincoln standout Tim Green.

Vauchard Goodridge, defensive lineman, Clark Atlanta, 6-1, 250 pounds

Goodridge was named co-Defensive Player of the Year in the SIAC with linebacker Leron Furr from Fort Valley State. He had 51 total tackles, two forced fumbles and 16 tackles for loss.

Bill Ross, linebacker, Arkansas-Pine Bluff, 6-2, 240 pounds

Ross led the SWAC in total tackles with 117. He had 63 solo tackles. Ross knows how to anticipate the run. He has a great understanding of how to play the game.

Leron Furr, linebacker, Fort Valley State, 6-1, 225 pounds

Furr is a real playmaking linebacker. He had 100 total tackles, 5.3 sacks and two interceptions.

Jakar Hamilton, defensive back, South Carolina State, 6-1, 200 pounds

Hamilton is a solid player in the secondary. He knows how to come up and stop the run. He had 40 total and 26 solo tackles last season.

Kejuan Riley, free safety, Alabama State, 6-1, 208 pounds

Riley is one of the best defensive players in the FCS. He covers a lot of ground in the secondary. He had four interceptions along with 55 total and 39 solo tackles last season.

Vernon Marshall, defensive back, Alabama A&M, 5-11, 188 pounds

Marshall is a real hitter. He’s a great open field tackler. He had 101 total and 50 solo tackles last year.

Contact staff writer Donald Hunt at (215) 893-5719 or dhunt@phillytrib.comThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
Read 268 times Published in Football
 

Defensive Players

Brandon Thurmond, defensive lineman, Arkansas-Pine Bluff, 6-2, 260 pounds

Thurmond used his quickness and strength to become one of the best pass rushers in the FCS. He led the SWAC with 16.5 sacks. Thurmond has a great knack of getting to the quarterback.

Brad Davis, defensive lineman, Elizabeth City State, 6-1, 245 pounds

Davis received Division II All-American honors. It’s not hard to see why he had 15.5 sacks. He also played the run very well with 25.5 tackles for loss of 142 yards. He’s one of the most athletic linemen in the country.

Joseph LeBeau, defensive lineman, Jackson State, 6-1, 245 pounds

LeBeau was one of the top defensive players in the SWAC. He had eight sacks last season. LeBeau is a great pass rusher. He can play the run, too. He had 54 total and 33 solo tackles.

Tim Green, defensive end, Lincoln University, 6-1, 215 pounds

Green was an All-CIAA selection. He had a great season 78 total and 33 solo tackles. He had a chance to participate in the Temple Pro Day last month.

Maurice Bertrand, defensive lineman, Lincoln University, 6-2, 280 pounds

Bertrand has good size and strength. He knows how to swarm to the football. Bertrand played along side of Lincoln standout Tim Green.

Vauchard Goodridge, defensive lineman, Clark Atlanta, 6-1, 250 pounds

Goodridge was named co-Defensive Player of the Year in the SIAC with linebacker Leron Furr from Fort Valley State. He had 51 total tackles, two forced fumbles and 16 tackles for loss.

Bill Ross, linebacker, Arkansas-Pine Bluff, 6-2, 240 pounds

Ross led the SWAC in total tackles with 117. He had 63 solo tackles. Ross knows how to anticipate the run. He has a great understanding of how to play the game.

Leron Furr, linebacker, Fort Valley State, 6-1, 225 pounds

Furr is a real playmaking linebacker. He had 100 total tackles, 5.3 sacks and two interceptions.

Jakar Hamilton, defensive back, South Carolina State, 6-1, 200 pounds

Hamilton is a solid player in the secondary. He knows how to come up and stop the run. He had 40 total and 26 solo tackles last season.

Kejuan Riley, free safety, Alabama State, 6-1, 208 pounds

Riley is one of the best defensive players in the FCS. He covers a lot of ground in the secondary. He had four interceptions along with 55 total and 39 solo tackles last season.

Vernon Marshall, defensive back, Alabama A&M, 5-11, 188 pounds

Marshall is a real hitter. He’s a great open field tackler. He had 101 total and 50 solo tackles last year.

Contact staff writer Donald Hunt at (215) 893-5719 or dhunt@phillytrib.comThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
Read 268 times Published in Football
 

 
Howard University linebacker Keith Pough was the MEAC Defensive Player of the Year this past season and has a great chance of getting drafted. —PHOTO/HOWARD When it comes to drafting quality football players, NFL teams should take a good look at some of the pro prospects from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). There are a number of HBCU standouts available at just about every position.

The NFL draft will be held April 25-27. It’s a good chance some of these players will be selected. However, some players may not get drafted, but they will likely sign with NFL teams as undrafted free agents. Thus, they will have an opportunity to play on Sundays.

Top Four HBCU Prospects

Keith Pough, linebacker, Howard, 6-3, 225 pounds

Pough is an outstanding linebacker. He was named to the Sheridan Broadcasting Network Black College All-American team. Pough was selected as the MEAC Defensive Player of the Year. He had a great week in front of the NFL scouts at the East-West Shrine Game and performed well at the NFL Combine.

Pough set a new FCS record for career tackles for losses with 71. He had 60 total, 34 solo tackles and 3.5 sacks last season.

Terron Armstead, offensive tackle, Arkansas-Pine Bluff, 6-5, 306 pounds

Armstead is one of the best at his position. He opened up a lot of eyes at the NFL Combine. He ran a 4.71 in the 40-yard dash, a Combine record for offensive linemen. Armstead played in the East-West Shrine Game and the Senior Bowl. He led Arkansas-Pine Bluff to the SWAC championship last season.

Rogers Gaines, offensive tackle, Tennessee State, 6-6, 334 pounds

Gaines is one of the best offensive linemen in the country. He’s a great run blocker. He knows how to pass protect. He can move his feet. Gaines ran a 5.24 in the 40 yard dash at the NFL Combine.

Brandon Hepburn, linebacker, Florida A&M, 6-2, 241 pounds

Hepburn did quite well at the NFL Combine. He clocked a 4.54 in the 40-yard dash. He was a terrific defensive player for the Rattlers. He had 86 total and 60 solo tackles with 5.5 sacks last season.

Best of the Rest

Offensive Players

Kameron Smith, quarterback, Winston-Salem State, 6-1, 187 pounds

Smith had a great year throwing the football. He threw for 3,312 yards while tossing an amazing 43 touchdown passes. He ran for 550 yards and scored five rushing touchdowns. He also led Winston-Salem State to a sensational 14-1 record before losing to Valdosta State in the NCAA Division II championship game.

Derrick Washington, running back, Tuskegee, 6-0, 200 pounds

Washington had a tremendous season. He rushed for 1,729 yards and scored 14 touchdowns. He averaged 7.8 yards a carry. Washington has great speed in the open field.

Daronte McNeil, running back, Elizabeth City State, 6-2, 200 pounds

McNeil runs with plenty of power and can explode through the holes. He rushed for 1, 344 yards on 316 carries while scoring 13 TDs. McNeil guided Elizabeth City State to a 28-13 win over Tuskegee in the Pioneer Bowl earning MVP honors.

Kaderius Lacey, running back, Alabama A&M, 6-0, 218 pounds

Lacey is a great inside runner. He’s capable of picking up the tough yards in short yardage situations. He rushed for 932 yards and scored eight TDs. He averaged 5.1 yards a carry.

Rico Richardson, wide receiver, Jackson State, 6-1, 185 pounds

Richardson was the best receiver in the SWAC. He has great speed. He can run the deep routes. Richardson had 50 receptions for 922 yards and scored eight TDs. He averaged 18.4 yards a reception.

Tyron Laughinghouse, return specialist/wide receiver, St. Augustine’s

Laughinghouse is one of the most exciting small college players in the nation. He’s a great receiver. He finished with 53 receptions for 801 yards and 12 TDs. But Laughinghouse led the country in kickoff returns in Division II. He aversaged 40.1 yards a return. He had three kickoff returns for touchdowns.

Stephen Capier, center, Jackson State, 6-2, 290 pounds

Capier is a great blocker. He moves laterally extremely well. He does a good job of staying with his blocks.

Zion Pratt, offensive tackle, Jackson State, 6-6, 290 pounds

Pratt has good speed and length. He keeps himself in good position. He can get out in front of the play. He’s a good pass blocker as well.

Terren Jones, offensive tackle, Alabama State, 6-7, 320 pounds

Jones is one of the best offensive linemen in the FCS. He knows how to open up big holes for the backs to have great running lanes.

Markus Lawrence, offensive tackle, Winston-Salem State, 6-4, 290 pounds

Lawrence was a big reason why Winston-Salem State has one of the best offenses in Division II. He provided good pass protection and open up some nice holes for the running game.

Jordan Moseley, offensive tackle, Johnson C. Smith, 6-3, 290 pounds

Moseley is a multi-talented offensive lineman. He played tackle and guard for Johnson C. Smith. His blocking skills helped the Golden Lions’ offense get into high gear last season.

Defensive Players

Brandon Thurmond, defensive lineman, Arkansas-Pine Bluff, 6-2, 260 pounds

Thurmond used his quickness and strength to become one of the best pass rushers in the FCS. He led the SWAC with 16.5 sacks. Thurmond has a great knack of getting to the quarterback.

Brad Davis, defensive lineman, Elizabeth City State, 6-1, 245 pounds

Davis received Division II All-American honors. It’s not hard to see why he had 15.5 sacks. He also played the run very well with 25.5 tackles for loss of 142 yards. He’s one of the most athletic linemen in the country.

Joseph LeBeau, defensive lineman, Jackson State, 6-1, 245 pounds

LeBeau was one of the top defensive players in the SWAC. He had eight sacks last season. LeBeau is a great pass rusher. He can play the run, too. He had 54 total and 33 solo tackles.

Tim Green, defensive end, Lincoln University, 6-1, 215 pounds

Green was an All-CIAA selection. He had a great season 78 total and 33 solo tackles. He had a chance to participate in the Temple Pro Day last month.

Maurice Bertrand, defensive lineman, Lincoln University, 6-2, 280 pounds

Bertrand has good size and strength. He knows how to swarm to the football. Bertrand played along side of Lincoln standout Tim Green.

Vauchard Goodridge, defensive lineman, Clark Atlanta, 6-1, 250 pounds

Goodridge was named co-Defensive Player of the Year in the SIAC with linebacker Leron Furr from Fort Valley State. He had 51 total tackles, two forced fumbles and 16 tackles for loss.

Bill Ross, linebacker, Arkansas-Pine Bluff, 6-2, 240 pounds

Ross led the SWAC in total tackles with 117. He had 63 solo tackles. Ross knows how to anticipate the run. He has a great understanding of how to play the game.

Leron Furr, linebacker, Fort Valley State, 6-1, 225 pounds

Furr is a real playmaking linebacker. He had 100 total tackles, 5.3 sacks and two interceptions.

Jakar Hamilton, defensive back, South Carolina State, 6-1, 200 pounds

Hamilton is a solid player in the secondary. He knows how to come up and stop the run. He had 40 total and 26 solo tackles last season.

Kejuan Riley, free safety, Alabama State, 6-1, 208 pounds

Riley is one of the best defensive players in the FCS. He covers a lot of ground in the secondary. He had four interceptions along with 55 total and 39 solo tackles last season.

Vernon Marshall, defensive back, Alabama A&M, 5-11, 188 pounds

Marshall is a real hitter. He’s a great open field tackler. He had 101 total and 50 solo tackles last year.

Contact staff writer Donald Hunt at (215) 893-5719 or dhunt@phillytrib.comThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
Read 189 times Published in Football
 

 LINCOLN UNIVERSITY, Pa. – Over a year ago, Maurice Bertrand (Yonkers, N.Y./Cherry Hill HS) was fighting, not just for a spot on the football field, but for his life.
 
A typical summer break is filled with trips out of town, visits to the shore, block party celebrations, and graduations to name a few.  Some students look forward to this time off after enduring the rigors of the academic school year.  Maurice decided to spend June 26, 2011 at a memorial barbeque in Camden, N.J. dedicated to a teenage friend who passed away crossing a highway.
 
He had spent the previous Sunday, Father's Day, in church with his father.  The two at times are inseparable.  The bond between this father and son duo is inseparable. Maurice begged his father to teach him how to play football ever since he was 10 years-old and was struck with a baseball. Tyrone Bertrand, a Shaw University graduate, played defensive back for the Bears.
 
But on this Sunday, Maurice wanted to pay tribute to his friend.
 
“Maurice usually would have been at church, but this Sunday I told him I would let him go to the barbeque,” Tyrone R. Bertrand, Maurice's father, said.
 
Once Maurice arrived at the barbeque, he was tasked with buying barbeque sauce from the neighborhood store.  While walking to the local store, Maurice noticed something disturbing.
 
“I saw a person at the barbeque getting jump by a group of about five guys,”  Maurice said.
 
Instead of ignoring the situation, Maurice assumed the role of “Good Samaritan' and broke up the fight. At the time, everyone scattered and things were back to normal or so they seemed.
 
Maurice continued walking to the store and about 20 minutes later he finally purchased the sauce. Realizing everyone at the barbeque was probably getting restless for the sauce, Maurice began his journey back.
 
What happens next is like a scene from a movie.
 
Maurice noticed something familiar about a group of guys packed in a car.  As soon as he realized who they were, the car took off after him.  One of the guys in the vehicle noticed it was Maurice. Seconds later, a person emerged from the back seat of the vehicle with a gun and began firing.
 
As the car raced away, Maurice fell to the ground.
 
Tyrone Bertrand, a retired Army National Guardsman, was one of the first responders during the tragedy on Sept. 11, 2001.  Unbeknownst to him at the time, his son's life would rely on similar actions by others.  People and friends ran to Maurice's rescue, performing first aid using the shirts from their body to stop the bleeding.
 
“I was bleeding excessively,” Maurice said.  “The last thing I remember saying was I am not going to make it.”
 
Fortunately, Maurice did make it.
 
He was rushed to Cooper Hospital in Camden, N.J., and later transferred to Thomas Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia where he woke up for the first time and saw loved ones at his bedside.  While Maurice might have doubted his chances of surviving, a person close to him was confident he would make it through.
 
“I felt like he was going to make it because of his fighting spirit, intestinal fortitude, and his belief in God,” Tyrone Bertrand said.
 
A number of family members, friends, coaches, and Lincoln University staff members visited Maurice at the hospital, while teammates Tim Green (Fanwood, N.J./Scotch Plains-Fanwood HS) and Michael Adjei (Woodbridge, Va./Woodbridge HS) called frequently.
 
“Maurice has been one of my closest friends outside of football,” Adjei said. “I called him every day to see how he was doing.”
 
Maurice began to make progress at Thomas Jefferson Hospital and was later sent to a rehabilitation center in Marlton, N.J., where he had to re-learn how to use his hands, walk, and bathe. Three weeks later, he was discharged from the rehabilitation center using crutches.  Maurice said he initially was not going to return to school, but in his mind, he did not want to fail himself.
 
Returning to Lincoln University in August 2011 presented numerous challenges.  According to Maurice, the doctors told him his chances of playing football again were slim. However, Lincoln University defensive coordinator, Herb Pickens said he was confident Maurice would one day return to the field because of his determination and work ethic.   
 
“I knew what Maurice goals were,” Pickens said.  “The first thing he told me when he left the hospital was don't count me out, coach. When he returned to school, he wanted to be treated like everyone else.  He didn't want any special accommodations.”
 
During the fall semester Maurice, an information technology major, worked hard in the classroom and in the athletic training room.  He served as a mentor for other student-athletes and cheered his teammates from the sideline. By December, Maurice's hard work had paid off as he was now walking without his crutches.
 
“Mr. Chris (Vigneault) and the athletic trainers were instrumental in helping me walk without the crutches,” Maurice said. “They did an excellent job working with me.”
 
In early March, he was once again back in pads at spring training camp.  If re-learning simple motor skills like gripping, clinching, walking, and bathing were challenges for him, just imagine re-learning football drills.
 
“In my head, I thought I might have to hang it up,” Maurice said.  “After about a week, I learned how to control the situation.”

Fast forward to now, and Maurice is one of the student-athletes controlling Lincoln's devasting defensive line, registering eight tackles. According to Maurice and his father, to their knowledge, the assailants were never apprehended by law enforcement. However, he has no regrets about his decision to intervene on that summer day.

"If I had to do it again, I would intervene like I did," Maurice said. "If I was in his shoes, I would want someone to do the same thing for me."
 
 
     
 
   
     

       
   
http://   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NLvbw0ylJU
  #53 Maurice Bertrand
Defensive LinemanSenior6'2"280 lbsYonkers, N.Y. / Shaw Information Technology

Hi Mr. Bertrand:


  I have posted the interview that I conducted with your son Maurice on Saturday night, here is the link to that video. 



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NLvbw0ylJU


  I am so sorry to hear about this incident about Maurice, I can't even imagine what that must of been like for him and your entire family.  Especially when you consider that it wasn't even his fault.  What an outstanding comeback he has made, it proves that he really loves playing ball to be able to make it back in such a short time.  The most impressive thing about Maurice was that I couldn't even tell he was seriously injured at any point.  He just blended in with all the other young strong bucks that he was competing against.
  Feel free to follow me on twitter.  It is the best way to find out when all the other videos will be posted from that workout.  Thank you so much for your time.


God Bless


Robert Brewer


aka


Football Rob



-----Original Message-----
From: Tyrone Bertrand <tbert77798@yahoo.com>
To: rbrewer21 <rbrewer21@aol.com>
Sent: Sun, Feb 24, 2013 10:02 pm
Subject: Maurice Bertrand #174


Rob it was a Pleasure meeting you last night at the Tri-State Combine. Here more info on my Son and any help you provide willnot be forgotten when He make it to The Big Show.http://blogs.phillymag.com/the_philly_post/2012/10/26/video-lincoln-university-player-wounded-shooting-returns-field/
http://www.newsworks.org/index.php/local//region/46090-bullet-wounds-and-a-shattered-leg-cant-keep-this-college-football-player-off-the-field
http://www.lulions.com/news/2012/10/26/FB_1026122158.aspx
 
 
                                                                                                                                   Thanks
                                                                                                                                   Tyronehttp://http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NLvbw0ylJU

Maurice Graduated last December . That was Grit and GOD'S Blessing.

Maurice Bertrand, 53, makes a tackle during the Johnson C. Smith game
 LINCOLN UNIVERSITY, Pa. – Over a year ago, Maurice Bertrand (Yonkers, N.Y./Cherry Hill HS) was fighting, not just for a spot on the football field, but for his life.
 
A typical summer break is filled with trips out of town, visits to the shore, block party celebrations, and graduations to name a few.  Some students look forward to this time off after enduring the rigors of the academic school year.  Maurice decided to spend June 26, 2011 at a memorial barbeque in Camden, N.J. dedicated to a teenage friend who passed away crossing a highway.
 
He had spent the previous Sunday, Father's Day, in church with his father.  The two at times are inseparable.  The bond between this father and son duo is inseparable. Maurice begged his father to teach him how to play football ever since he was 10 years-old and was struck with a baseball. Tyrone Bertrand, a Shaw University graduate, played defensive back for the Bears.
 
But on this Sunday, Maurice wanted to pay tribute to his friend.
 
“Maurice usually would have been at church, but this Sunday I told him I would let him go to the barbeque,” Tyrone R. Bertrand, Maurice's father, said.
 
Once Maurice arrived at the barbeque, he was tasked with buying barbeque sauce from the neighborhood store.  While walking to the local store, Maurice noticed something disturbing.
 
“I saw a person at the barbeque getting jump by a group of about five guys,”  Maurice said.
 
Instead of ignoring the situation, Maurice assumed the role of “Good Samaritan' and broke up the fight. At the time, everyone scattered and things were back to normal or so they seemed.
 
Maurice continued walking to the store and about 20 minutes later he finally purchased the sauce. Realizing everyone at the barbeque was probably getting restless for the sauce, Maurice began his journey back.
 
What happens next is like a scene from a movie.
 
Maurice noticed something familiar about a group of guys packed in a car.  As soon as he realized who they were, the car took off after him.  One of the guys in the vehicle noticed it was Maurice. Seconds later, a person emerged from the back seat of the vehicle with a gun and began firing.
 
As the car raced away, Maurice fell to the ground.
 
Tyrone Bertrand, a retired Army National Guardsman, was one of the first responders during the tragedy on Sept. 11, 2001.  Unbeknownst to him at the time, his son's life would rely on similar actions by others.  People and friends ran to Maurice's rescue, performing first aid using the shirts from their body to stop the bleeding.
 
“I was bleeding excessively,” Maurice said.  “The last thing I remember saying was I am not going to make it.”
 
Fortunately, Maurice did make it.
 
He was rushed to Cooper Hospital in Camden, N.J., and later transferred to Thomas Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia where he woke up for the first time and saw loved ones at his bedside.  While Maurice might have doubted his chances of surviving, a person close to him was confident he would make it through.
 
“I felt like he was going to make it because of his fighting spirit, intestinal fortitude, and his belief in God,” Tyrone Bertrand said.
 
A number of family members, friends, coaches, and Lincoln University staff members visited Maurice at the hospital, while teammates Tim Green (Fanwood, N.J./Scotch Plains-Fanwood HS) and Michael Adjei (Woodbridge, Va./Woodbridge HS) called frequently.
 
“Maurice has been one of my closest friends outside of football,” Adjei said. “I called him every day to see how he was doing.”
 
Maurice began to make progress at Thomas Jefferson Hospital and was later sent to a rehabilitation center in Marlton, N.J., where he had to re-learn how to use his hands, walk, and bathe. Three weeks later, he was discharged from the rehabilitation center using crutches.  Maurice said he initially was not going to return to school, but in his mind, he did not want to fail himself.
 
Returning to Lincoln University in August 2011 presented numerous challenges.  According to Maurice, the doctors told him his chances of playing football again were slim. However, Lincoln University defensive coordinator, Herb Pickens said he was confident Maurice would one day return to the field because of his determination and work ethic.   
 
“I knew what Maurice goals were,” Pickens said.  “The first thing he told me when he left the hospital was don't count me out, coach. When he returned to school, he wanted to be treated like everyone else.  He didn't want any special accommodations.”
 
During the fall semester Maurice, an information technology major, worked hard in the classroom and in the athletic training room.  He served as a mentor for other student-athletes and cheered his teammates from the sideline. By December, Maurice's hard work had paid off as he was now walking without his crutches.
 
“Mr. Chris (Vigneault) and the athletic trainers were instrumental in helping me walk without the crutches,” Maurice said. “They did an excellent job working with me.”
 
In early March, he was once again back in pads at spring training camp.  If re-learning simple motor skills like gripping, clinching, walking, and bathing were challenges for him, just imagine re-learning football drills.
 
“In my head, I thought I might have to hang it up,” Maurice said.  “After about a week, I learned how to control the situation.”

Fast forward to now, and Maurice is one of the student-athletes controlling Lincoln's devasting defensive line, registering eight tackles. According to Maurice and his father, to their knowledge, the assailants were never apprehended by law enforcement. However, he has no regrets about his decision to intervene on that summer day.

"If I had to do it again, I would intervene like I did," Maurice said. "If I was in his shoes, I would want someone to do the same thing for me."
 
 
     
 
   
     

       
   
http://   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NLvbw0ylJU
  #53 Maurice Bertrand
Defensive LinemanSenior6'2"280 lbsYonkers, N.Y. / Shaw Information Technology

 Hi Mr. Bertrand:


  I have posted the interview that I conducted with your son Maurice on Saturday night, here is the link to that video. 



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NLvbw0ylJU


  I am so sorry to hear about this incident about Maurice, I can't even imagine what that must of been like for him and your entire family.  Especially when you consider that it wasn't even his fault.  What an outstanding comeback he has made, it proves that he really loves playing ball to be able to make it back in such a short time.  The most impressive thing about Maurice was that I couldn't even tell he was seriously injured at any point.  He just blended in with all the other young strong bucks that he was competing against.
  Feel free to follow me on twitter.  It is the best way to find out when all the other videos will be posted from that workout.  Thank you so much for your time.


God Bless


Robert Brewer


aka


Football Rob



-----Original Message-----
From: Tyrone Bertrand <tbert77798@yahoo.com>
To: rbrewer21 <rbrewer21@aol.com>
Sent: Sun, Feb 24, 2013 10:02 pm
Subject: Maurice Bertrand #174


Rob it was a Pleasure meeting you last night at the Tri-State Combine. Here more info on my Son and any help you provide willnot be forgotten when He make it to The Big Show.http://blogs.phillymag.com/the_philly_post/2012/10/26/video-lincoln-university-player-wounded-shooting-returns-field/
http://www.newsworks.org/index.php/local//region/46090-bullet-wounds-and-a-shattered-leg-cant-keep-this-college-football-player-off-the-field
http://www.lulions.com/news/2012/10/26/FB_1026122158.aspx
 
 
                                                                                                                                   Thanks
                                                                                                                                   Tyronehttp://http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NLvbw0ylJU

A typical summer break is filled with trips out of town, visits to the shore, block party celebrations, and graduations to name a few.  Some students look forward to this time off after enduring the rigors of the academic school year.  Maurice decided to spend June 26, 2011 at a memorial barbeque in Camden, N.J. dedicated to a teenage friend who passed away crossing a highway.
 
He had spent the previous Sunday, Father's Day, in church with his father.  The two at times are inseparable.  The bond between this father and son duo is inseparable. Maurice begged his father to teach him how to play football ever since he was 10 years-old and was struck with a baseball. Tyrone Bertrand, a Shaw University graduate, played defensive back for the Bears.
 
But on this Sunday, Maurice wanted to pay tribute to his friend.
 
“Maurice usually would have been at church, but this Sunday I told him I would let him go to the barbeque,” Tyrone R. Bertrand, Maurice's father, said.
 
Once Maurice arrived at the barbeque, he was tasked with buying barbeque sauce from the neighborhood store.  While walking to the local store, Maurice noticed something disturbing.
 
“I saw a person at the barbeque getting jump by a group of about five guys,”  Maurice said.
 
Instead of ignoring the situation, Maurice assumed the role of “Good Samaritan' and broke up the fight. At the time, everyone scattered and things were back to normal or so they seemed.
 
Maurice continued walking to the store and about 20 minutes later he finally purchased the sauce. Realizing everyone at the barbeque was probably getting restless for the sauce, Maurice began his journey back.
 
What happens next is like a scene from a movie.
 
Maurice noticed something familiar about a group of guys packed in a car.  As soon as he realized who they were, the car took off after him.  One of the guys in the vehicle noticed it was Maurice. Seconds later, a person emerged from the back seat of the vehicle with a gun and began firing.
 
As the car raced away, Maurice fell to the ground.
 
Tyrone Bertrand, a retired Army National Guardsman, was one of the first responders during the tragedy on Sept. 11, 2001.  Unbeknownst to him at the time, his son's life would rely on similar actions by others.  People and friends ran to Maurice's rescue, performing first aid using the shirts from their body to stop the bleeding.
 
“I was bleeding excessively,” Maurice said.  “The last thing I remember saying was I am not going to make it.”
 
Fortunately, Maurice did make it.
 
He was rushed to Cooper Hospital in Camden, N.J., and later transferred to Thomas Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia where he woke up for the first time and saw loved ones at his bedside.  While Maurice might have doubted his chances of surviving, a person close to him was confident he would make it through.
 
“I felt like he was going to make it because of his fighting spirit, intestinal fortitude, and his belief in God,” Tyrone Bertrand said.
 
A number of family members, friends, coaches, and Lincoln University staff members visited Maurice at the hospital, while teammates Tim Green (Fanwood, N.J./Scotch Plains-Fanwood HS) and Michael Adjei (Woodbridge, Va./Woodbridge HS) called frequently.
 
“Maurice has been one of my closest friends outside of football,” Adjei said. “I called him every day to see how he was doing.”
 
Maurice began to make progress at Thomas Jefferson Hospital and was later sent to a rehabilitation center in Marlton, N.J., where he had to re-learn how to use his hands, walk, and bathe. Three weeks later, he was discharged from the rehabilitation center using crutches.  Maurice said he initially was not going to return to school, but in his mind, he did not want to fail himself.
 
Returning to Lincoln University in August 2011 presented numerous challenges.  According to Maurice, the doctors told him his chances of playing football again were slim. However, Lincoln University defensive coordinator, Herb Pickens said he was confident Maurice would one day return to the field because of his determination and work ethic.   
 
“I knew what Maurice goals were,” Pickens said.  “The first thing he told me when he left the hospital was don't count me out, coach. When he returned to school, he wanted to be treated like everyone else.  He didn't want any special accommodations.”
 
During the fall semester Maurice, an information technology major, worked hard in the classroom and in the athletic training room.  He served as a mentor for other student-athletes and cheered his teammates from the sideline. By December, Maurice's hard work had paid off as he was now walking without his crutches.
 
“Mr. Chris (Vigneault) and the athletic trainers were instrumental in helping me walk without the crutches,” Maurice said. “They did an excellent job working with me.”
 
In early March, he was once again back in pads at spring training camp.  If re-learning simple motor skills like gripping, clinching, walking, and bathing were challenges for him, just imagine re-learning football drills.
 
“In my head, I thought I might have to hang it up,” Maurice said.  “After about a week, I learned how to control the situation.”

Fast forward to now, and Maurice is one of the student-athletes controlling Lincoln's devasting defensive line, registering eight tackles. According to Maurice and his father, to their knowledge, the assailants were never apprehended by law enforcement. However, he has no regrets about his decision to intervene on that summer day.

"If I had to do it again, I would intervene like I did," Maurice said. "If I was in his shoes, I would want someone to do the same thing for me."
 
http://http://www.newsworks.org/index.php/local//region/46090-bullet-wounds-and-a-shattered-leg-

Maurice Bertrand, 53, makes a tackle during the Johnson C. Smith game
 LINCOLN UNIVERSITY, Pa. – Over a year ago, Maurice Bertrand (Yonkers, N.Y./Cherry Hill HS) was fighting, not just for a spot on the football field, but for his life.
 
A typical summer break is filled with trips out of town, visits to the shore, block party celebrations, and graduations to name a few.  Some students look forward to this time off after enduring the rigors of the academic school year.  Maurice decided to spend June 26, 2011 at a memorial barbeque in Camden, N.J. dedicated to a teenage friend who passed away crossing a highway.
 
He had spent the previous Sunday, Father's Day, in church with his father.  The two at times are inseparable.  The bond between this father and son duo is inseparable. Maurice begged his father to teach him how to play football ever since he was 10 years-old and was struck with a baseball. Tyrone Bertrand, a Shaw University graduate, played defensive back for the Bears.
 
But on this Sunday, Maurice wanted to pay tribute to his friend.
 
“Maurice usually would have been at church, but this Sunday I told him I would let him go to the barbeque,” Tyrone R. Bertrand, Maurice's father, said.
 
Once Maurice arrived at the barbeque, he was tasked with buying barbeque sauce from the neighborhood store.  While walking to the local store, Maurice noticed something disturbing.
 
“I saw a person at the barbeque getting jump by a group of about five guys,”  Maurice said.
 
Instead of ignoring the situation, Maurice assumed the role of “Good Samaritan' and broke up the fight. At the time, everyone scattered and things were back to normal or so they seemed.
 
Maurice continued walking to the store and about 20 minutes later he finally purchased the sauce. Realizing everyone at the barbeque was probably getting restless for the sauce, Maurice began his journey back.
 
What happens next is like a scene from a movie.
 
Maurice noticed something familiar about a group of guys packed in a car.  As soon as he realized who they were, the car took off after him.  One of the guys in the vehicle noticed it was Maurice. Seconds later, a person emerged from the back seat of the vehicle with a gun and began firing.
 
As the car raced away, Maurice fell to the ground.
 
Tyrone Bertrand, a retired Army National Guardsman, was one of the first responders during the tragedy on Sept. 11, 2001.  Unbeknownst to him at the time, his son's life would rely on similar actions by others.  People and friends ran to Maurice's rescue, performing first aid using the shirts from their body to stop the bleeding.
 
“I was bleeding excessively,” Maurice said.  “The last thing I remember saying was I am not going to make it.”
 
Fortunately, Maurice did make it.
 
He was rushed to Cooper Hospital in Camden, N.J., and later transferred to Thomas Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia where he woke up for the first time and saw loved ones at his bedside.  While Maurice might have doubted his chances of surviving, a person close to him was confident he would make it through.
 
“I felt like he was going to make it because of his fighting spirit, intestinal fortitude, and his belief in God,” Tyrone Bertrand said.
 
A number of family members, friends, coaches, and Lincoln University staff members visited Maurice at the hospital, while teammates Tim Green (Fanwood, N.J./Scotch Plains-Fanwood HS) and Michael Adjei (Woodbridge, Va./Woodbridge HS) called frequently.
 
“Maurice has been one of my closest friends outside of football,” Adjei said. “I called him every day to see how he was doing.”
 
Maurice began to make progress at Thomas Jefferson Hospital and was later sent to a rehabilitation center in Marlton, N.J., where he had to re-learn how to use his hands, walk, and bathe. Three weeks later, he was discharged from the rehabilitation center using crutches.  Maurice said he initially was not going to return to school, but in his mind, he did not want to fail himself.
 
Returning to Lincoln University in August 2011 presented numerous challenges.  According to Maurice, the doctors told him his chances of playing football again were slim. However, Lincoln University defensive coordinator, Herb Pickens said he was confident Maurice would one day return to the field because of his determination and work ethic.   
 
“I knew what Maurice goals were,” Pickens said.  “The first thing he told me when he left the hospital was don't count me out, coach. When he returned to school, he wanted to be treated like everyone else.  He didn't want any special accommodations.”
 
During the fall semester Maurice, an information technology major, worked hard in the classroom and in the athletic training room.  He served as a mentor for other student-athletes and cheered his teammates from the sideline. By December, Maurice's hard work had paid off as he was now walking without his crutches.
 
“Mr. Chris (Vigneault) and the athletic trainers were instrumental in helping me walk without the crutches,” Maurice said. “They did an excellent job working with me.”
 
In early March, he was once again back in pads at spring training camp.  If re-learning simple motor skills like gripping, clinching, walking, and bathing were challenges for him, just imagine re-learning football drills.
 
“In my head, I thought I might have to hang it up,” Maurice said.  “After about a week, I learned how to control the situation.”

Fast forward to now, and Maurice is one of the student-athletes controlling Lincoln's devasting defensive line, registering eight tackles. According to Maurice and his father, to their knowledge, the assailants were never apprehended by law enforcement. However, he has no regrets about his decision to intervene on that summer day.

"If I had to do it again, I would intervene like I did," Maurice said. "If I was in his shoes, I would want someone to do the same thing for me."
 
 
     
 
   
     

       
   
http://   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NLvbw0ylJU
  #53 Maurice Bertrand
Defensive LinemanSenior6'2"280 lbsYonkers, N.Y. / Shaw Information Technology

 Hi Mr. Bertrand:


  I have posted the interview that I conducted with your son Maurice on Saturday night, here is the link to that video.  



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NLvbw0ylJU


  I am so sorry to hear about this incident about Maurice, I can't even imagine what that must of been like for him and your entire family.  Especially when you consider that it wasn't even his fault.  What an outstanding comeback he has made, it proves that he really loves playing ball to be able to make it back in such a short time.  The most impressive thing about Maurice was that I couldn't even tell he was seriously injured at any point.  He just blended in with all the other young strong bucks that he was competing against.
  Feel free to follow me on twitter.  It is the best way to find out when all the other videos will be posted from that workout.  Thank you so much for your time.


God Bless


Robert Brewer


aka


Football Rob
http://http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NLvbw0ylJU

MAURICE BERTRAND
ATHLETE DEVELOPMENT TEAM
Name: Maurice Bertrand
Sport:
Football Position: Defensive Tackle
College:
Lincoln University
Hometown:
Cherry Hill, NJ
DOB:
11-8-87
Height:
6'1"
Weight:
285 lbs
225 lb Reps: 19x Vertical: TBD Pro Shuttle: TBD 40 Yard: 4.79 L Cone: TBD Broad Jump: TBD
Web: www.agencyathlete.com/clients/mbertrand Agent Advisor: Charles Wanner Phone: (215) 307-7309 Fax: (917) 677-8885 Email: charles.wanner@agencyathlete.com Athlete Contact: Maurice Bertrand Phone: (856) 571-0883 Email: reesebert@me.com
Maurice is a passionate football player who played DT for Lincoln University and has dealt with much adversity in his life that has made him a better man
In 2011, Maurice had the unfortunate experience of being in the wrong place at the wrong time in Camden, NJ and ended up being shot 5x where bullets were fired into his femur, arm and leg
Fortunately Maurice made a full recovery and is working hard to get one more opportunity of pursuing his dream of becoming a professional football player
Maurice is an inspiration for his positive attitude and is the type of player that would be an asset to your team both on and off the field
Maurice has good football instincts with a willingness to learn and develop as a player
Maurice has the work ethic, talent, heart, and determination to succeed as a professional football player, and will reward the team that signs him
College Resume:
2012 - Played in 7 games with 12 Tackles, 7 Solo, 3.5 TFL and 1.5 Sacks
2011 - Did not play due to medical reasons
2010 - Played in 7 games with 18 Tackles, 5 Solo and 1.5 Sacks
2012 - Lincoln University - Maurice Bertrand Highlights (#53) - http://youtu.be/WeZ0HNLzXVU
2012 - Video Interview - http://youtu.be/g3U23YkAZeQ
2012 - Article - Philly.com - http://player.ps/XMm3rf
2012 - Lincoln University - Roster Profile - http://player.ps/XMlGNf

School Name Goes Here
   
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Football HomeRosterScheduleHead Coach O.J. AbanisheStatisticsTicketsArchived StoriesFrom the Hospital to the Football Field
LU's student-athlete Maurice Bertrand shows the Heart of a Lion
Jonathan White, Sports Information Intern
 
inShare.
Maurice Bertrand, 53, makes a tackle during the Johnson C. Smith game
 LINCOLN UNIVERSITY, Pa. – Over a year ago, Maurice Bertrand (Yonkers, N.Y./Cherry Hill HS) was fighting, not just for a spot on the football field, but for his life.
 
A typical summer break is filled with trips out of town, visits to the shore, block party celebrations, and graduations to name a few.  Some students look forward to this time off after enduring the rigors of the academic school year.  Maurice decided to spend June 26, 2011 at a memorial barbeque in Camden, N.J. dedicated to a teenage friend who passed away crossing a highway.
 
He had spent the previous Sunday, Father's Day, in church with his father.  The two at times are inseparable.  The bond between this father and son duo is inseparable. Maurice begged his father to teach him how to play football ever since he was 10 years-old and was struck with a baseball. Tyrone Bertrand, a Shaw University graduate, played defensive back for the Bears.
 
But on this Sunday, Maurice wanted to pay tribute to his friend.
 
“Maurice usually would have been at church, but this Sunday I told him I would let him go to the barbeque,” Tyrone R. Bertrand, Maurice's father, said.
 
Once Maurice arrived at the barbeque, he was tasked with buying barbeque sauce from the neighborhood store.  While walking to the local store, Maurice noticed something disturbing.
 
“I saw a person at the barbeque getting jump by a group of about five guys,”  Maurice said.
 
Instead of ignoring the situation, Maurice assumed the role of “Good Samaritan' and broke up the fight. At the time, everyone scattered and things were back to normal or so they seemed.
 
Maurice continued walking to the store and about 20 minutes later he finally purchased the sauce. Realizing everyone at the barbeque was probably getting restless for the sauce, Maurice began his journey back.
 
What happens next is like a scene from a movie.
 
Maurice noticed something familiar about a group of guys packed in a car.  As soon as he realized who they were, the car took off after him.  One of the guys in the vehicle noticed it was Maurice. Seconds later, a person emerged from the back seat of the vehicle with a gun and began firing.
 
As the car raced away, Maurice fell to the ground.
 
Tyrone Bertrand, a retired Army National Guardsman, was one of the first responders during the tragedy on Sept. 11, 2001.  Unbeknownst to him at the time, his son's life would rely on similar actions by others.  People and friends ran to Maurice's rescue, performing first aid using the shirts from their body to stop the bleeding.
 
“I was bleeding excessively,” Maurice said.  “The last thing I remember saying was I am not going to make it.”
 
Fortunately, Maurice did make it.
 
He was rushed to Cooper Hospital in Camden, N.J., and later transferred to Thomas Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia where he woke up for the first time and saw loved ones at his bedside.  While Maurice might have doubted his chances of surviving, a person close to him was confident he would make it through.
 
“I felt like he was going to make it because of his fighting spirit, intestinal fortitude, and his belief in God,” Tyrone Bertrand said.
 
A number of family members, friends, coaches, and Lincoln University staff members visited Maurice at the hospital, while teammates Tim Green (Fanwood, N.J./Scotch Plains-Fanwood HS) and Michael Adjei (Woodbridge, Va./Woodbridge HS) called frequently.
 
“Maurice has been one of my closest friends outside of football,” Adjei said. “I called him every day to see how he was doing.”
 
Maurice began to make progress at Thomas Jefferson Hospital and was later sent to a rehabilitation center in Marlton, N.J., where he had to re-learn how to use his hands, walk, and bathe. Three weeks later, he was discharged from the rehabilitation center using crutches.  Maurice said he initially was not going to return to school, but in his mind, he did not want to fail himself.
 
Returning to Lincoln University in August 2011 presented numerous challenges.  According to Maurice, the doctors told him his chances of playing football again were slim. However, Lincoln University defensive coordinator, Herb Pickens said he was confident Maurice would one day return to the field because of his determination and work ethic.   
 
“I knew what Maurice goals were,” Pickens said.  “The first thing he told me when he left the hospital was don't count me out, coach. When he returned to school, he wanted to be treated like everyone else.  He didn't want any special accommodations.”
 
During the fall semester Maurice, an information technology major, worked hard in the classroom and in the athletic training room.  He served as a mentor for other student-athletes and cheered his teammates from the sideline. By December, Maurice's hard work had paid off as he was now walking without his crutches.
 
“Mr. Chris (Vigneault) and the athletic trainers were instrumental in helping me walk without the crutches,” Maurice said. “They did an excellent job working with me.”
 
In early March, he was once again back in pads at spring training camp.  If re-learning simple motor skills like gripping, clinching, walking, and bathing were challenges for him, just imagine re-learning football drills.
 
“In my head, I thought I might have to hang it up,” Maurice said.  “After about a week, I learned how to control the situation.”

Fast forward to now, and Maurice is one of the student-athletes controlling Lincoln's devasting defensive line, registering eight tackles. According to Maurice and his father, to their knowledge, the assailants were never apprehended by law enforcement. However, he has no regrets about his decision to intervene on that summer day.

"If I had to do it again, I would intervene like I did," Maurice said. "If I was in his shoes, I would want someone to do the same thing for me."

LINCOLN UNIVERSITY, Pa. – Over a year ago, Maurice Bertrand (Yonkers, N.Y./Cherry Hill HS) was fighting, not just for a spot on the football field, but for his life.
 
A typical summer break is filled with trips out of town, visits to the shore, block party celebrations, and graduations to name a few.  Some students look forward to this time off after enduring the rigors of the academic school year.  Maurice decided to spend June 26, 2011 at a memorial barbeque in Camden, N.J. dedicated to a teenage friend who passed away crossing a highway.
 
He had spent the previous Sunday, Father's Day, in church with his father.  The two at times are inseparable.  The bond between this father and son duo is inseparable. Maurice begged his father to teach him how to play football ever since he was 10 years-old and was struck with a baseball. Tyrone Bertrand, a Shaw University graduate, played defensive back for the Bears.
 
But on this Sunday, Maurice wanted to pay tribute to his friend.
 
“Maurice usually would have been at church, but this Sunday I told him I would let him go to the barbeque,” Tyrone R. Bertrand, Maurice's father, said.
 
Once Maurice arrived at the barbeque, he was tasked with buying barbeque sauce from the neighborhood store.  While walking to the local store, Maurice noticed something disturbing.
 
“I saw a person at the barbeque getting jump by a group of about five guys,”  Maurice said.
 
Instead of ignoring the situation, Maurice assumed the role of “Good Samaritan' and broke up the fight. At the time, everyone scattered and things were back to normal or so they seemed.
 
Maurice continued walking to the store and about 20 minutes later he finally purchased the sauce. Realizing everyone at the barbeque was probably getting restless for the sauce, Maurice began his journey back.
 
What happens next is like a scene from a movie.
 
Maurice noticed something familiar about a group of guys packed in a car.  As soon as he realized who they were, the car took off after him.  One of the guys in the vehicle noticed it was Maurice. Seconds later, a person emerged from the back seat of the vehicle with a gun and began firing.
 
As the car raced away, Maurice fell to the ground.
 
Tyrone Bertrand, a retired Army National Guardsman, was one of the first responders during the Sept. 11, 2011 tragedy.  Unbeknownst to him at the time, his son's life would rely on similar actions by others.  People and friends ran to Maurice's rescue, performing first aid using the shirts from their body to stop the bleeding.
 
“I was bleeding excessively,” Maurice said.  “The last thing I remember saying was I am not going to make it.”
 
Fortunately, Maurice did make it.
 
He was rushed to Cooper Hospital in Camden, N.J., and later transferred to Thomas Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia where he woke up for the first time and saw loved ones at his bedside.  While Maurice might have doubted his chances of surviving, a person close to him was confident he would make it through.
 
“I felt like he was going to make it because of his fighting spirit, intestinal fortitude, and his belief in God,” Tyrone Bertrand said.
 
A number of family members, friends, coaches, and Lincoln University staff members visited Maurice at the hospital, while teammates Tim Green (Fanwood, N.J./Scotch Plains-Fanwood HS) and Michael Adjei (Woodbridge, Va./Woodbridge HS) called frequently.
 
“Maurice has been one of my closest friends outside of football,” Adjei said. “I called him every day to see how he was doing.”
 
Maurice began to make progress at Thomas Jefferson Hospital and was later sent to a rehabilitation center in Marlton, N.J., where he had to re-learn how to use his hands, walk, and bathe. Three weeks later, he was discharged from the rehabilitation center using crutches.  Maurice said he initially was not going to return to school, but in his mind, he did not want to fail himself.
 
Returning to Lincoln University in August 2011 presented numerous challenges.  According to Maurice, the doctors told him his chances of playing football again were slim. However, Lincoln University defensive coordinator, Herb Pickens said he was confident Maurice would one day return to the field because of his determination and work ethic.   
 
“I knew what Maurice goals were,” Pickens said.  “The first thing he told me when he left the hospital was don't count me out, coach. When he returned to school, he wanted to be treated like everyone else.  He didn't want any special accommodations.”
 
During the fall semester Maurice, an information technology major, worked hard in the classroom and in the athletic training room.  He served as a mentor for other student-athletes and cheered his teammates from the sideline. By December, Maurice's hard work had paid off as he was now walking without his crutches.
 
“Mr. Chris (Vigneault) and the athletic trainers were instrumental in helping me walk without the crutches,” Maurice said. “They did an excellent job working with me.”
 
In early March, he was once again back in pads at spring training camp.  If re-learning simple motor skills like gripping, clinching, walking, and bathing were challenges for him, just imagine re-learning football drills.
 
“In my head, I thought I might have to hang it up,” Maurice said.  “After about a week, I learned how to control the situation.”

Fast forward to now, and Maurice is one of the student-athletes controlling Lincoln's devasting defensive line, registering eight tackles. According to Maurice and his father, to thier knowledge, the assailants were never apprehended by law enforcement. However, he has no regrets about his decision to intervene on that summer day.

"If I had to do it again, I would intervene like I did," Maurice said. "If I was in his shoes, I would want someone to do the same thing for me."

Re: TY version of His Son Maurice Bertrand
« Reply #4 on: November 01, 2012, 08:09:32 PM »     

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Quote from: tbertque on October 29, 2012, 02:51:45 PM
A typical summer break is filled with trips out of town, visits to the shore, block party celebrations, and graduations to name a few.  Some students look forward to this time off after enduring the rigors of the academic school year.  Maurice decided to spend June 26, 2011 at a memorial barbeque in Camden, N.J. dedicated to a teenage friend who passed away crossing a highway.
 
He had spent the previous Sunday, Father's Day, in church with his father.  The two at times are inseparable.  The bond between this father and son duo is inseparable. Maurice begged his father to teach him how to play football ever since he was 10 years-old and was struck with a baseball. Tyrone Bertrand, a Shaw University graduate, played defensive back for the Bears.
 
But on this Sunday, Maurice wanted to pay tribute to his friend.
 
“Maurice usually would have been at church, but this Sunday I told him I would let him go to the barbeque,” Tyrone R. Bertrand, Maurice's father, said.
 
Once Maurice arrived at the barbeque, he was tasked with buying barbeque sauce from the neighborhood store.  While walking to the local store, Maurice noticed something disturbing.
 
“I saw a person at the barbeque getting jump by a group of about five guys,”  Maurice said.
 
Instead of ignoring the situation, Maurice assumed the role of “Good Samaritan' and broke up the fight. At the time, everyone scattered and things were back to normal or so they seemed.
 
Maurice continued walking to the store and about 20 minutes later he finally purchased the sauce. Realizing everyone at the barbeque was probably getting restless for the sauce, Maurice began his journey back.
 
What happens next is like a scene from a movie.
 
Maurice noticed something familiar about a group of guys packed in a car.  As soon as he realized who they were, the car took off after him.  One of the guys in the vehicle noticed it was Maurice. Seconds later, a person emerged from the back seat of the vehicle with a gun and began firing.
 
As the car raced away, Maurice fell to the ground.
 
Tyrone Bertrand, a retired Army National Guardsman, was one of the first responders during the Sept. 11, 2011 tragedy.  Unbeknownst to him at the time, his son's life would rely on similar actions by others.  People and friends ran to Maurice's rescue, performing first aid using the shirts from their body to stop the bleeding.
 
“I was bleeding excessively,” Maurice said.  “The last thing I remember saying was I am not going to make it.”
 
Fortunately, Maurice did make it.
 
He was rushed to Cooper Hospital in Camden, N.J., and later transferred to Thomas Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia where he woke up for the first time and saw loved ones at his bedside.  While Maurice might have doubted his chances of surviving, a person close to him was confident he would make it through.
 
“I felt like he was going to make it because of his fighting spirit, intestinal fortitude, and his belief in God,” Tyrone Bertrand said.
 
A number of family members, friends, coaches, and Lincoln University staff members visited Maurice at the hospital, while teammates Tim Green (Fanwood, N.J./Scotch Plains-Fanwood HS) and Michael Adjei (Woodbridge, Va./Woodbridge HS) called frequently.
 
“Maurice has been one of my closest friends outside of football,” Adjei said. “I called him every day to see how he was doing.”
 
Maurice began to make progress at Thomas Jefferson Hospital and was later sent to a rehabilitation center in Marlton, N.J., where he had to re-learn how to use his hands, walk, and bathe. Three weeks later, he was discharged from the rehabilitation center using crutches.  Maurice said he initially was not going to return to school, but in his mind, he did not want to fail himself.
 
Returning to Lincoln University in August 2011 presented numerous challenges.  According to Maurice, the doctors told him his chances of playing football again were slim. However, Lincoln University defensive coordinator, Herb Pickens said he was confident Maurice would one day return to the field because of his determination and work ethic.   
 
“I knew what Maurice goals were,” Pickens said.  “The first thing he told me when he left the hospital was don't count me out, coach. When he returned to school, he wanted to be treated like everyone else.  He didn't want any special accommodations.”
 
During the fall semester Maurice, an information technology major, worked hard in the classroom and in the athletic training room.  He served as a mentor for other student-athletes and cheered his teammates from the sideline. By December, Maurice's hard work had paid off as he was now walking without his crutches.
 
“Mr. Chris (Vigneault) and the athletic trainers were instrumental in helping me walk without the crutches,” Maurice said. “They did an excellent job working with me.”
 
In early March, he was once again back in pads at spring training camp.  If re-learning simple motor skills like gripping, clinching, walking, and bathing were challenges for him, just imagine re-learning football drills.
 
“In my head, I thought I might have to hang it up,” Maurice said.  “After about a week, I learned how to control the situation.”

Fast forward to now, and Maurice is one of the student-athletes controlling Lincoln's devasting defensive line, registering eight tackles. According to Maurice and his father, to thier knowledge, the assailants were never apprehended by law enforcement. However, he has no regrets about his decision to intervene on that summer day.

"If I had to do it again, I would intervene like I did," Maurice said. "If I was in his shoes, I would want someone to do the same thing for me."
 


 
 
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