Collins quits team, cites money woes
By Doug Alden, Associated Press, 10/17/2002 09:39
LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) Thunder Collins has quit the Nebraska football team, citing a lack of money to take care of his younger brother.
The running back issued a written statement Wednesday night, saying he quit school and the team in order to take care of his 17-year-old brother, who came from Los Angeles to Lincoln to live with him.
Collins missed a third straight day of practice Wednesday and issued the statement later.
''My decision to leave the football team is in no way related to football,'' Collins said in the statement.
Collins said a large cut in his $404 in monthly scholarship money after being suspended four games for violating NCAA rules prompted his decision.
Collins, who entered the season listed as a co-No. 1 with Dahrran Diedrick, was third on the team in rushing last year with 647 yards on 94 carries. He has 14 carries for 39 yards this season.
After serving the suspension, Collins dropped to the third team because true freshman David Horne emerged as the top backup to Diedrick.
If Collins does want to return to the team, coach Frank Solich will listen. However, he said there would be disciplinary action if he agrees to let Collins come back.
''I would have to visit with him and see exactly what the circumstances are surrounding him not being here for three days,'' Solich said.
By Doug Alden, Associated Press, 10/17/2002 09:39
LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) Thunder Collins has quit the Nebraska football team, citing a lack of money to take care of his younger brother.
The running back issued a written statement Wednesday night, saying he quit school and the team in order to take care of his 17-year-old brother, who came from Los Angeles to Lincoln to live with him.
Collins missed a third straight day of practice Wednesday and issued the statement later.
''My decision to leave the football team is in no way related to football,'' Collins said in the statement.
Collins said a large cut in his $404 in monthly scholarship money after being suspended four games for violating NCAA rules prompted his decision.
Collins, who entered the season listed as a co-No. 1 with Dahrran Diedrick, was third on the team in rushing last year with 647 yards on 94 carries. He has 14 carries for 39 yards this season.
After serving the suspension, Collins dropped to the third team because true freshman David Horne emerged as the top backup to Diedrick.
If Collins does want to return to the team, coach Frank Solich will listen. However, he said there would be disciplinary action if he agrees to let Collins come back.
''I would have to visit with him and see exactly what the circumstances are surrounding him not being here for three days,'' Solich said.
