July 3, 2008

COLLEGE PARK, Md. - Three years ago Moise Fokou was a walk-on for the Maryland football team following his transfer from Frostburg State. Now the established Sam linebacker enters his senior season looking to build on what has already been a productive career. Fokou started all 13 games in 2007, amassing 84 tackles, three forced fumbles, one fumble recovery and one interception. He has now played in 26 consecutive games for the Terps.

Nearing full recovery from off-season shoulder surgery, Fokou took time earlier this week to speak with umterps.com.

How is your recovery from shoulder surgery progressing?

"It was rough the first two months, but it's gotten a lot better. I feel my strength coming back and my flexibility coming back, so I think it's going well. I should be good to go (when preseason camp opens on August 4)."

What changes for the linebacker corp now that you no longer have the services of All-Atlantic Coast Conference performer Erin Henderson?

"It makes it so that everybody has to step up their game a little bit because he was a big part of our defense. With him gone, everybody has to step up that much more. We have pretty good depth at each linebacker spot, so that should help."

What does it mean to you to have accomplished so much as a former walk-on?

"It means a lot. It's a pretty big accomplishment if you think about it. I take it day-by-day, continue to prepare hard, stay focused and try to keep my job."

When is the last time you visited your native Cameroon?

"My parents went last summer. I was supposed to go, but I couldn't make it. I'm hoping to go after I graduate because I haven't been there since I was about five."

Who if your favorite NFL linebacker to watch play?

"I'd have to say Ray Lewis. His intensity and his tenacity - he's like an animal out there. He's wild, but he still does his assignment. He's exciting to watch play."

What is something people don't know about you?

"I like to joke around. I walk around like I'm serious sometimes, but I like to joke around and have fun. Usually I have a serious face on and people take me a little too seriously. If you get to know me, you find out I make pranks and have a good time."

Is there an added source of motivation that arises from being a senior?

"I think a lot of guys focus more because they realize it might be there last time playing this game at such a competitive level. You always want to make it the best and go out on top. I've seen it the past three or four years that I've been here - the senior don't take anything for granted."

Terp Notes:

Preseason Camp Opens Next Month: The Terps open the 2008 season on Saturday, Aug. 30 when they play host to Delaware at Chevy Chase Bank Field at Byrd Stadium (3:45 p.m. kickoff), but the team is just a month away from opening preseason camp. Newcomers report to campus on Saturday, Aug. 2 with the veterans arriving the next day. The Terps will hold their annual Media Day on Monday, Aug. 4 with practice beginning that afternoon.

Season Tickets on Sale:Season tickets for this fall's seven-game home slate start as low as $189 and are on sale through the Maryland Athletics Ticket Office. Call 1-800-IM-A-TERP or click here for information.

Stadium Construction Update: Construction continues on the suites at Chevy Chase Bank Field at Byrd Stadium. Click here to view the construction cam and a blog.