Former University of Tulsa quarterback, Gary Joe Kinne, also known as G.J., earned the MVP award in Saturday’s NFLPA AstroTurf Collegiate Bowl. The National Team player led his team to a 20-14 victory against the American Team. He completed 6 of 9 passes for 79 yards and also had a 20- yard touchdown run.
Kinne, who made 6,382 passing yards and 53 touchdowns during his college career, felt very flattered to have been given the opportunity to participate in the NFLPA sponsored event.
“It was very humbling and I was very honored to be a part of this game and to be able to play well and win MVP, which is the icing on the cake,” says Kinne.
The Texas native is one who thrives in adverse situations and believes that his main source of motivation originates from those who have doubted him. The quarterback said, “Going through the [transition to the NFL means] you have a lot of people that doubt you, and that just motivates me. And I am just anxious to start training and working towards that next level.”
Kinne also asserts that the weeklong AstroTurf Bowl Game activities taught him a great deal about transition into the professional level of football.
“That hard work pays off. I learned so much from all of these great ex-players that came back and coached. Coach Vermil and Terry Shea, they taught me a lot about not just playing football, but being a pro,” he asserts.
When asked about the qualities that distinguishes him from the other 2012 NFL prospects, Kinne responded, “Just being able to extend the play, the ability to be mobile in the pocket, and my leadership abilities.”
