Running back Jared Turcotte is contemplating his future on the University of Maine football team and might not return for his senior season.
Turcotte, who led the Black Bears in rushing as a redshirt freshman in 2008 but has been plagued by injuries ever since, was recently denied a medical waiver that would have given him another year of eligibility. He has one year of eligibility remaining.
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The former Lewiston High standout had surgery on his left knee last month to repair a meniscus tear, and now may need surgery on his right knee to repair another meniscus tear. He missed all of 2009 with a sports hernia that required two surgeries.
That combination of factors, coupled with a newfound perspective on life as a husband and father, has prompted him to take a long, hard look at his future.
Turcotte and Maine Coach Jack Cosgrove have set a loose timetable to reach a decision by mid-February.
“I’d have one year left to play and I don’t know if that’s what I want to do or not,” said Turcotte. “Every day I feel the grinding in (the knee) and there’s nothing they can do to make that better.”
Turcotte said his new role as a father has certainly played a part in reaching this crossroads. He was married last July and became a father in September.
“I’d be lying if I said it didn’t have anything to do with it,” said Turcotte. “Any decision I make isn’t just for me, but for my wife and daughter, too.
“A few weeks before my daughter was born my mom told me ‘Don’t let football define you. It’s not who you are. It’s what you do.’
“I don’t want to jump to any decision. I’m just grateful (Coach Cosgrove) gave me a little bit of time to step back and figure out what I feel like is the best thing for my family and myself.”
Cosgrove said he and Turcotte had a heart-to-heart discussion and agreed to a grace period for Turcotte to make a decision. The rest of the team is already working out together as part of the offseason program.
Turcotte will meet with doctors again later this week.
“We’ve been very cautious with him. He was hurt when he got here,” said Cosgrove. “He had a great first year and we got hammered for not playing him more, but he could hardly walk after some games.”
“He still loves football. But he’s got some physical liabilities that have come to the forefront.”
Turcotte rushed for 625 yards in 2008, helping the Black Bears reach the Football Championship Subdivision playoffs for the first time in eight years.
After missing all of 2009, he returned this year but played in only six games and carried the ball just 99 times, gaining 452 yards.
“I feel for the kid,” said Cosgrove. “I’m disappointed for him. I’m disappointed for us. This is a kid with great expectations. I’m still hopeful, though.”
Staff Writer Jenn Menendez can be contacted at 791-6426 or at: jmenendez@pressherald.com
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