No injuries, just sore muscles for 710 ESPN Seattle members at Seahawks’ media combine

Danny O'Neil did not deviate from his usual attire while competing in the media combine. (Seahawks photo)

RENTON – “He made it through,” is one of Pete Carroll’s go-to phrases when asked about a player who did not fare all that well. It’s his way of saying something about a less-than-stellar performance without being publicly critical or overtly dishonest.

In that sense, we all “made it through” the first-ever Seahawks.com Media Combine. There were no significant injuries or wardrobe malfunctions, thankfully, but lots of sore muscles and one collective reminder of why we cover sports for a living as opposed to play them. A good time was had by all, including the two participants – that I saw; there may have been others – who fell spectacularly while running.

The event took place inside the indoor practice facility at the Seahawks’ headquarters. About 25 local sports media members participated, including reporters, television folks and radio hosts. Blitz, the Seahawks’ mascot, took part as well. The 710 ESPN Seattle/710Sports.com contingent included Danny O’Neil, James Osborn (aka Boy Howdy), Liz Mathews and yours truly. Danny wore a full suit and bow-tie, as you’d expect. He switched to proper sneakers once his foot slipped out of his dress shoes.

Related: Social media posts from 710 ESPN Seattle at Seahawks media combine

At least one participant had to call it an early day, but no one was seriously hurt. That eventuality was covered as Seahawks trainers were on hand. I asked and was assured that there were defibrillators nearby. We also had to sign waivers.

A few Seahawks were working out on the field as media members filed in (as if we needed a reminder of our physical limitations). Richard Sherman, Bruce Irvin and Bobby Wagner were among the players who hung out during the event, setting up shop near the finish line of the 40-yard dash. They appeared much more entertained than impressed. Other players – including Justin Britt and Mark Glowinski – popped their heads in to check out the action, if you could call it that.

Former Seahawk Jordan Babineaux – who now works for the team – served as the event instructor. Another ex-Seahawk, Leroy Hill, was also on hand. Marcus Trufant took part in the drills at about 75 percent speed, which really put things in perspective when none of us were much faster despite going all out.

Participants were tested in six drills that are part of the actual NFL scouting combine, which is wrapping up on Monday: the 40-yard dash, vertical jump, broad jump, three-cone drill, shuttle run and the gauntlet (a pass-catching drill).

The Seahawks have posted the results and a photo gallery. None of us from 710 ESPN Seattle/710Sports.com finished at the top of any event. But we all made it through and had a great time.