QB Patton Robinette’s playing career coming to an end. http://t.co/1MfWoY5sUU pic.twitter.com/Gp8SONSmXl
— VandyFootball (@VandyFootball) March 27, 2015
Less than a week after starting the Vanderbilt spring game, junior Patton Robinette is calling it a career. Last season, Robinette played in six games and compeleted 64% of his passes (which was far and away the best on the team). Robinette was expected to compete for the starting QB job this season and seemed to be the front-runner.
The redshirt junior from Maryville, Tenn., told teammates of his decision during a brief gathering Friday morning. He informed Vanderbilt Head Coach Derek Mason of his plans on Thursday. The decision allows Robinette to enter Vanderbilt School of Medicine this summer. He plans to study in the field of orthopedics.
Robinette’s decision to leave the field was influenced by a history of injuries. Robinette spoke frequently with his parents, close acquaintances, Vanderbilt physicians and athletic trainers, and Commodore coaches before deciding to end his career.
“This has been a very difficult decision to make,” Robinette said Friday. “This team means the world to me and I love playing football more than anything. It’s been tough coming to a decision that is right for my family and I, and protects my health and future.
“I’ve been very deliberate in coming to this decision. It’s difficult but I’m really excited to move forward to the next chapter of my life and really to see what the field of medicine has in store for me,” Robinette added.
