Quarterbacks, running backs and wide receivers need not apply.

The position Artis Hicks played in the National Football League was anything but glamorous, but for those who play the game in the trenches, he is teaching aspects of the game at ‘Will Breakers’ a camp for offensive linemen.

‘Will Breakers’ is being held at ATLAS Fitness, 3021 Highway 45 Bypass, Suite 109, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Thursday.

The first week of classes end June 13, but resume June 24-27 and July 22-25.

Fees are $150.

“If you really know football well, you understand all games are pretty much won up front with the big guys,” Artis said, ” I’m a former offensive lineman – and I’ll always be an offensive lineman at heart.

“I wanted to come out and put something together and concentrate on teaching these big guys … how to play (lineman) position and how to play at a high level.

“That’s what motivated me to put this camp together.”

A graduate of Jackson Central-Merry High School, Artis played football at the University of Memphis before signing with the Philadelphia Eagles as a free agent in 2002.

With Philadelphia, he started in Super Bowl XXXIX against the New England Patriots.

He also played for the Minnesota Vikings, Washington Redskins and Cleveland Browns.

“Some of the college coaches I know, I either played with or played for, are looking for offensive linemen,” Artis said.

Artis works with each player individually.

“We stretch, and work on hip mobility … how to bend in the hips,” Artis said, “Big guys look good, but they can’t move, and you can’t play at a high level if you don’t have mobility.

There’s also footwork.

“We’ll go through a ton of drills to work on foot speed,” Artis said, “We work on position, technical aspects, proper stance. We start at ground zero.

“I’m excited about the opportunity to teach.”

For more information, contact Artis at (731) 267-6682.

(PHOTO: Artis Hicks, back, is surrounded by offensive linemen Brandon Stewart, Charles Sims and J.P. Oliver)
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