I know he’s not the only one to have ever faced the issue of wanting to be there to help and care for an ailing parent, while trying to follow his own path and goals; but that doesn’t make the issue any less difficult.
The story is out that Rashad Jennings is considering leaving Pitt to help care for his father back in Virginia.
Recently, Jennings’ father had a setback in a long battle against diabetes. Albert Jennings, 53, already has had one leg amputated because of the disease and doctors now say they might have to amputate the other one.
“It’s tough, watching my mother carry my father,” Jennings said, his voice soft but firm. “I don’t want to leave that burden on my mother. I want to be home with them. This is where I belong.”
About a week ago, Jennings talked with Panthers coach Dave Wannstedt about the situation. He said Wannstedt told him to go home and take his time making a decision.
Wannstedt was unavailable for comment yesterday. A Pitt athletic department spokesman said neither the school nor Wannstedt would issue a statement until after the matter was resolved.
I believe under NCAA rules, Pitt and Coach Wannstedt are also prohibited from discussing the subject until resolution is reached.
The struggles of Jennings’ father have been going on all semester.
The situation appears completely in flux as Jennings is torn in many directions — wanting to be there to help his father, not leave Pitt, not stop his education (and lose access to the academic support structure provided by a major university), and play football.
I am truly impressed that he doesn’t want to stop his education and admits his desire/need for the academic support provided at Pitt (or any major Div. 1-A school). It shows a strong and admirable character, and someone with a real desire to get his education. A reflection of the kind of man he is and the way he was raised by his parents.
Here’s hoping things work out for Rashad Jennings. I hope he is able to stay at Pitt, not (just) because of his football ability, but because he is the kind of person you want to have at your school.
