Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: FRIDAY, August 27, 1993 TAG: 9308270048
SECTION: SPORTS PAGE: B4 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: SCOTT BLANCHARD STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
\ Virginia Tech defensive end P.J. Preston ended his college football career Thursday, rather than spend the season in limbo because of an undiagnosed illness that causes him to gag during physical exertion.
Preston, a fifth-year senior from Martinsville, has no eligibility remaining after this season. A fifth-year player can not apply for a medical hardship unless the injury prevents him from attending class.
Preston called the decision "completely mine."
"I feel like it's better for me and the team," he said. "The team doesn't need to be worried about what their captain is doing, what's going on with me."
Team doctor Duane Lagan said Preston will continue to be treated until a cure is found. It's possible Preston could rejoin the team, although limited practice at his new position would make it difficult for him to make an impact.
"I told him if we can get the problem solved, we'd sit down and talk again," Tech coach Frank Beamer said. "For right now, we've got a direction. It's important everyone has a direction."
Preston said he would not ruling out returning if he is cured.
Preston, 6-foot-2 and 223 pounds, played three years at outside linebacker for the Hokies. One of the team's best athletes, he had 201 tackles (11 for losses), 15 sacks, three interceptions and a blocked punt.
In a 1991 game against Louisville, he dominated with seven tackles (one for a loss), two sacks, an interception, a pass broken up, a fumble recovered, a fumble caused and two blocks to spring punt returns.
Preston, 21, is considered to have pro potential, but on Thursday that wasn't an issue.
"The pros don't really mean anything to me," he said. "My health is more important. A lot of people are saying, `You're giving up a lot of money.' Who knows? If I play, I might blow out a knee. Nothing's definite."
In the spring, Preston was moved to safety in Tech's new 4-3 scheme, but he was switched to defensive end when fall practice began. He had practiced only a few times, and not in pads, because of his ailment.
Lagan and several medical specialists who have examined Preston say he is in good health. Preston's condition has been unaffected by various attempted remedies, including a change in diet, tranquilizers and a visit to a psychiatrist.
"He made the right decision," Beamer said. "He knows he's done the right thing."
Preston said he is scheduled to graduate in May with a degree in sports management.
by CNB