close
close

The college football quarterback of a major school is abruptly retiring for health reasons

The college football quarterback of a major school is abruptly retiring for health reasons

North Carolina State quarterback Grayson McCall has shockingly left the team due to multiple concussions he suffered this year, most recently in a game against Wake Forest this month.

McCall suffered a blow to the head on October 5 and was carried off the field against the Demon Deacons. He was immediately transported to a local hospital.

He was released the same day, and the Wolfpack said he was “alert and in good spirits” after playing his final game on the gridiron.

McCall played for Coastal Carolina for five seasons before transferring to NC State for his final year of college.

He released a lengthy statement on social media about his decision to retire.

The college football quarterback of a major school is abruptly retiring for health reasons

Grayson McCall has retired from football after suffering multiple concussions and playing six college seasons

McCall left North Carolina State's game against Wake Forest on Oct. 5 with a head injury

McCall left North Carolina State’s game against Wake Forest on Oct. 5 with a head injury

“As a little kid, I never wanted to watch cartoons or do things that most other kids did.” As a little kid, I wanted to watch soccer and run around with the ball in my hand. “Over that time, I developed a deep love and passion for the game.”

“Through God’s work and some pretty good genetics, I figured out that I could be better than all the other kids if I just kept working at it.” As I started to develop and grow, I imagined this crazy dream “To grow up and be just like the boys I saw on TV.”

“From Porter Ridge to Conway and last year in Raleigh, this journey has been better than any dream I could have ever imagined.” This game has taken me places I never thought I would go , and has shaped my family and me in ways I could never have imagined. I have created so many memories that will stay with me forever and I am so grateful for that.”

“Unfortunately, my dream has been shattered.” As you all know, I have struggled with injuries throughout my career, but I can’t come back from this injury. I did everything I could to keep going, but the good Lord called me here to serve in another place. Brain specialists, my family and I have concluded that it is in my best interest to hang up the boots.”

McCall's helmet came off in the collision, which marked the final game of his career

McCall’s helmet came off in the collision, which marked the final game of his career

Several of McCall's teammates were devastated at the sight of his injury on the sidelines

Several of McCall’s teammates were devastated at the sight of his injury on the sidelines

McCall hopes to pursue coaching now that his college career on the field is over

McCall hopes to pursue coaching now that his college career on the field is over

“While I feel like my whole world is being taken away from me, I feel a certain sense of contentment. Every time my feet touched the grass, I left every single ounce of myself on the field. I always tried my best and did my best because I never knew what play would be my last. “I have no regrets throughout my career and I can be proud of that.”

“I would like to use this time to show my appreciation to everyone who was there. I would like to thank my family, friends, teammates, fans and all the coaches who have supported me over the years from the bottom of my heart. Without all of you none of this would have been possible.’

“I look forward to bringing my passion and love for the game into coaching to mentor and guide the next group of kids with a dream. Thank you very much.”

During his time with the Chanticleers, McCall was a three-time Sun Belt Conference Player of the Year.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *