Sep 26, 2011

Texas' Nolan Brewster quits football

   AUSTIN, Texas -- Texas junior safety Nolan Brewster is quitting football because of concussions and post-traumatic migraine headaches.
Brewster has a history of concussions and migraines dating back to high school. He suffered a severe concussions in No. 17 Texas' win over UCLA on Sept. 17.
Brewster had played in all three games this season for the Longhorns (3-0) at safety and on special teams. Athletic trainer Kenny Boyd says recent tests prompted officials to advise Brewster not to continue playing.

"It's something we've been monitoring very closely," said Kenny Boyd, Texas' head athletic trainer for football. "We've talked to Nolan and his family extensively about the situation, and after a recent comprehensive evaluation, we felt it was in Nolan's best interest to no longer play football."
Brewster is the son of former Minnesota head coach and Longhorns assistant Tim Brewster.
"It was probably the toughest decision I've had to make so far in my life, but I think at the end of the day, it's the right one," Brewster added. "It's difficult because I love football and playing for Texas, but I know in my heart this is the right thing to do. I just know I can't keep playing worrying about this continuing to get worse and knowing that I'm risking my long-term quality of life."
Last season, former Longhorns running back Tre' Newton gave up football because of recurring concussions.
Brewster has played in 30 career games, posting 35 tackles and an interception. He redshirted last year due to a shoulder injury.
"We're disappointed for Nolan, and I know it was a really difficult decision for him and his family," Longhorns coach Mack Brown said. "I've known him since he was a little kid and know he loves this place and playing football for Texas, so this is a tough deal, but his health is the most important thing. He's a smart young man with a bright future."

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