Gage Brook, a junior at the University of Wyoming, has made a notable transition from quarterback to tight end during spring football practice, according to an April 21 report. Brook is the son of former Wyoming linebacker Mark Brook and former Cowgirls volleyball player Wende (Brown) Brook. His sister, Taylor Brook, also played soccer for the Cowgirls.
Brook approached head coach Jay Sawvel before spring practice with the request to move positions in order to contribute more on the field. Since then, he has become one of the most consistent playmakers in the passing game through 12 practices and recently caught a touchdown pass from Tyler Hughes during a major scrimmage.
“It has felt great,” Brook said. “I’m enjoying catching the ball. The good thing about playing quarterback is even though I don’t catch it live in practice I’m still throwing and catching every day, so I think that has helped. It’s feeling pretty natural right now.”
Offensive coordinator Christian Taylor said that Brook’s skills have been impressive: “He has really good ball skills,” Taylor said. “He has been excellent in the pass game. I think he’ll be able to help us in that role… He’s done an excellent job in the passing game.” Tight ends coach Shannon Moore added, “Whatever his role is, he’s going to go out and make every play he can make because he’s determined… when an opportunity finds him being able to make those plays.” Head coach Sawvel also commented on his progress: “He looks pretty good at the position… his ball skills for the position have been surprising.”
Brook continues to work on blocking technique but remains involved as both a tight end and occasionally as a quarterback during practices. He is expected to contribute primarily at tight end when Wyoming opens its season against Colorado State on September 5.
“I’m still trying to keep my vision broad when I’m learning the offense just in case I’m needed at quarterback so I can have a better understanding of everything,” Brook said.
