It was announced Thursday evening that Northwestern defensive back Dwight White will retire from football due to Renal Agenesis, a condition where a person has one kidney. White is a redshirt sophomore and has received a Medical non-counter from the NCAA, enabling him to finish school on a scholarship.
White was obviously upset with the news but is aware his health is more important.
“It hurts knowing I will no longer wear my family name across my back and Northwestern across the front of my jersey on a national level, but I will always support my friends and my second family on and off the field. As I get older, I will be able to look back on this decision and feel good about the time I have had here as a student-athlete. I’m so grateful to be here at Northwestern where I’m able to continue my education at this prestigious University.”
In 2013, White played in all 12 of the Wildcats’ games, recording 26 total tackles and an interception. Northwestern head coach Pat Fitzgerald had this to say about White,
“We love Dwight and we’re proud to have him as a part of the Wildcats football family. It’s disappointing to lose a great teammate from the field but I’m excited he’s able to remain involved in the program, and I’m looking forward to his continuing development as a student, a leader and a professional at Northwestern.”
White has not appeared in a game this season after discovering his condition in June.
*Section Photo credit to Eric Francis, Getty Images; Featured Photo (above) credit to Jerry Lai, USA Today Sports.
