ODUSports.com takes a closer look this week at defensive tackle, Pat Toal.
Q: Why did you choose Old Dominion?
A: When ODU recruited me, I really liked how it felt like a family. I liked where the program was going and wanted to be a part of it.
Q: What is your favorite thing about Hampton Roads?
A: I like the beach a lot because it reminds me of home and the Jersey Shore area. That’s another thing that drew me to ODU because the beach made it feel like home.
Q: What is your major?
A: My major is criminal justice with a minor in coaching.
Q: When did you start playing football?
A: I started playing football at a young age, but then I got too heavy to play in the youth leagues. I picked it back up when I got to high school and fell back in love with it.
Q: What other sports did you play growing up?
A: I wrestled and played baseball when I was younger.
Q: Who is your role model?
A: My role models would be my dad and J.J. Watt.
Q: Favorite food?
A: My favorite food would be a pork roll, egg and cheese sandwich from Jim’s.
Q: Favorite music artist?
A: My favorite music artist is Lil Wayne.
Q: What is your favorite movie?
A: I would have to say my favorite movie is The Wolf of Wall Street.
Q: What’s on your iPod?
A: I have Lil Wayne, Eminem, Young Thug and 50 Cent.
Q: Favorite NFL team?
A: My favorite NFL team is the New York Jets.
Q: Favorite athlete?
A: My favorite athlete is J.J. Watt.
Q: One place you want to travel to?
A: I would love to go to Ireland because that’s where my family is from.
Q: Who is one famous person you hope to meet?
A: I would go with J.J. Watt, again.
Q: Pregame rituals?
A: I just go through the motions and stay calm. I’m not really an angry person, and I don’t get too hyped up. I like to stay calm before the game.
Q: Favorite actor/actress?
A: My favorite actors are Mark Wahlberg and Jim Carrey.
Q: Favorite part of gameday?
A: My favorite part of gameday is going out on the field and looking up at the crowd and seeing everybody. It gives me a thrill knowing I’m able to go out there and do this with my life.
Q: How did wrestling help you out with football?
A: It helped me tremendously. It got me in shape, helped my footwork and improved my balance. My hands and feet move a lot better thanks to wrestling. I never believed it until my coach told me it would, and now I realize the difference it has made.