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Thomas Michael Zbikowski, better known as Tom Zbikowski, is a defensive back, punt returner, and strong safety for the University of Notre Dame football team. He grew up in Arlington Heights, Illinois, and attended Buffalo Grove High School in Buffalo Grove, Illinois. He also was a golden glove boxer, who had an outstanding amateur boxing career. Zbikowski has been described by Coach Charlie Weis, as "all day tough." His 2005-2006 season was nothing short of sensational. Zbikowski's performance in the loss at the 2006 Fiesta Bowl vs. Ohio State included a fumble return for a touchdown, but this was ultimately reversed due to a penalty on the play. Zbikowski did not play as a freshman and started as a sophomore. He is currently heading into his senior year leaving him one more year of eligibility heading into the 2007 year.
On June 10, 2006, Zbikowski made his professional boxing debut at Madison Square Garden, NYC, beating his opponent, Mr. Robert Bell of Akron, Ohio, within 49 seconds of the first round. The fight was compliant with NCAA guidelines. Bell, who is an Ohio State football fan, wore an Ohio State football jersey into the ring, only to be beaten in the first round by the Notre Dame safety. Zbikowski will continue his boxing career after the 2006 football season. He signed a three fight contract and has two fights left which he plans to compete in after the season.
[edit] Personal
- Good friend and roommate of current ND star wide receiver Jeff Samardzija.
- Senior year at Buffalo Grove High School fumbled the game away on the one yard line vs. Mount Prospect in the state playoffs.
- During his first two years at Notre Dame, Zbikowski lived in Alumni Hall.
- Avid Chicago Bears and Chicago Cubs fan as well as a strong supporter of a close to home minor league baseball team, the Schaumburg Flyers.
- 15th in the nation in punt returning AVG. in the NCAA last year with 14 yards a return. (Highlight of the season was his punt return for touchdown in USC game)
- 4th on the team with 71 tackles.
- Led team with 5 interceptions.
- Regarded as emotional leader of his football team.
- Started off the 2006 season with a mohawk.
- Took the nickname Diesel after a freshman at X after seeing his athletic ability and tenacity.
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