Georgia Tech guard Shamire Devine has an ambitious summer plan – to lose more than 30 pounds.
Devine has battled weight problems since arriving at Tech, which has limited his conditioning level and playing time. His goal is to arrive at preseason camp at 335 pounds on his 6-foot-7 frame. Monday, he said he was at 369.
“Hard work, dedication and no partying,” Devine said of his plan.
Devine’s definition of partying includes watching movies in his room and “eating fancy.” Asked what “eating fancy” meant, Devine replied, “I’m not inclined to say, because (offensive line) Coach (Mike) Sewak will read this.”
Devine should be able to get more conditioning in before spring practice ends. Devine returned to practice Wednesday, the first time he had taken part in contact drills since the first week of spring practice, when he suffered a concussion in practice. Devine said he sustained the injury hitting a chute – a metal frame that linemen run under to train them to stay low.
In that time since the injury, not being able to practice, he gained seven pounds and his conditioning suffered. He said at 369, “I can feel the difference. My back hurts and my knees hurt.”
A fit Devine would be a significant upgrade for the Tech offensive line, where coaches are trying to find a starter at guard to replace All-American Shaquille Mason. Playing occasionally last season, Devine’s power as a blocker was obvious.
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