But the hazy start has not had a long term affect on his NFL career—Morris was eventually signed to the Miami Dolphins’ practice squad and is currently having success in NFL Europe.

Balestracci takes comfort from his example, and the similar story of offensive lineman Soriano, a free agent signed to the New England Patriots’ practice squad also playing in the NFL Europe this spring.

“It’s not the end of the world if you don’t get drafted,” he says. “I’m just looking realistically.”

Soriano echoes his sentiment.

“Keep working hard,” Soriano offers as advice to the next generation of Harvard NFL prospects. “If you can play, you can play. Don’t get discouraged.”

WAITING GAME

At this point the decision is out of his hands, but in the off-season Balestracci has been training tirelessly to be in top condition. From the end of the Harvard football season in November to spring break in March, Balestracci trainedregularly with the assistance of Harvard Athletics strength and conditioning coaches Sean Hayes and Jodi Nash, along with former teammate Jack Fadule ’03. After spring break came Pro Days, mini-combines where scouts could check out the incoming draft class.

After that, Balestracci says, it’s just been a matter of patience.

“I’ve been training in the weight room, speed training, sprints and stuff,” he says. “Since [spring break] it’s just been a waiting game, and it will be a waiting game.”

Admittedly, Balestracci’s focus on the final prize may have taken precedence over some of his other obligations—like finishing up his senior year, for instance.

“Most if not all of my efforts have been on preparing,” he admits, likening the training to the spring practices currently being undertaken by the Harvard football team. “It’s an extra mental effort—a bigger stage, more pressure.”

Nevertheless, it’s absolutely been worth the toil.

“I’ve enjoyed the whole process—I’m anxious to see how everything plays out this weekend,” Balestracci says.

GOOD COMPANY

Balestracci isn’t the only Ivy player looking to be picked this weekend. Penn, which went undefeated this year, offers up a solid senior class that includes the 2003 Ivy League Player of the Year quarterback Mike Mitchell. Other Ivy standouts are tight ends Nate Lawrie of Yale and Casey Cramer of Dartmouth, both of whom could be nabbed in the late rounds.