Running back wants to help spread the NFL word throughout Asia, Chen Xiangfeng writes

Feng xian (dedication), jue xin (determination), zun jing (respect) and zhong cheng (loyalty). These four tattooed Chinese characters on Mike Tolbert's arms made him am obvious target for a number of Chinese journalists who visited the San Diego Chargers and watched their game against the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday.

The easygoing Chargers' running back says he is a fan of Chinese culture and is looking forward to visiting China one day.

Tolbert, 26, attributes his love of China and Asian culture to his Philippines-born wife.

"I love and enjoy Chinese and Asian culture thanks to my wife. These tattoos are part of me. I also watch Asian movies," said Tolbert, who was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Chargers on April 28, 2008. "(My wife) has some Chinese friends who have also become my friends. But it's a pity I have never been to China or any other Asian country. I really want to go there one day."

With the NFL working to expand its presence in China, Tolbert is also passing on his knowledge of the sport to potential fans in the world's most populous nation.

"Football is a game of life. It teaches you character. It teaches you respect, teaches you passion for the game and teaches you about life," he said.

Relaxed and full of fun in front of his Chinese audience, Tolbert spoke of his choice to play football in high school and then be selected as an undrafted player.

"Not being drafted was not good thing. It hurt me. But it drove me to work harder and play better. I always had the confidence in myself that I was able to play at that (NFL) level. Being able to go from not being drafted to what I have now is really gratifying.

"I played basketball and football in high school. Those two sports have been in all of my life. I finally chose football. Now, I think it has paid off pretty well," he said.

Asked if Miami Heat superstar LeBron James would be able to dominate if he played in the NFL, Tolbert shook his head.

"I don't think so. Basketball is five guys on the court and one superstar can dominate the game. But in football, with his height and size, he would not be able to dominate like he does in the NBA."

(China Daily 12/20/2011 page23)