'10 CO ATH Danny Spond (Notre Dame Man)

[CHIDomer9]

Jaylon will make some "WOW" plays that Danny couldn't because of Jaylon's athleticism but there will also be the occasional head scratcher from being out of position. Spond was about as solid of a player as can be.

What is this based on, other than age?

 

[Cackalacky]

Not trying to be crass but doe this open up a spot for the incoming class?

 

[STLDomer]

Not trying to be crass but doe this open up a spot for the incoming class?

No, Spond is a senior. No effect on recruiting

 

[IrishLax]

While we are all excited to see Jaylon and what Councell can do, this is what concerns me:

This is really the crux of it all. Councell was already pushing for time because of things he can do that Spond couldn't.

But you cannot understate how Spond was routinely solid at the point of attack, rarely got out of position, covered well, and was a sure tackler when needed... at arguably the most multi-faceted and complicated position on the D.

I think you can expect Councell/Jaylon to maybe make more "plays" in Danny's absence but also probably many more mistakes... and I think you might see the "DOG" come off the field more for a DB on likely passing situations.

 

[NDdomer2]

No, Spond is a senior. No effect on recruiting

Could open up a scholarship for a walk-on this year though correct?

 

[Whiskeyjack]

Could open up a scholarship for a walk-on this year though correct?

I doubt it. Kelly hasn't typically awarded walk-on scholarships until they're earned. I don't think any currently deserving walk-on is still on his own dime simply due to the 85 limit.

We were well under the limit when Schmidt earned his scholarship.

 

[Cackalacky]

Has anyone heard if Spond will stay and graduate? If I missed it I apologize.

 

[BobD]

Has anyone heard if Spond will stay and graduate? If I missed it I apologize.

He's staying and will travel with the team.

 

[Emcee77]

Could open up a scholarship for a walk-on this year though correct?

I doubt it. Kelly hasn't typically awarded walk-on scholarships until they're earned. I don't think any currently deserving walk-on was still on his own dime simply due to the 85 limit.

We were well under the limit when Schmidt earned his scholarship.

Right. Connor Cavalaris and Tyler Plantz have gotten on the field on special teams, but I'm not sure either has earned a scholarship yet. Maybe next year, if they distinguish themselves on special teams again this fall.

 

[Kak7304]

What is this based on, other than age?

Inexperience. It's inevitable that a young guy will make mistakes and be out of position especially at a complex position. See Lax's post up above. He'll just be able to cover some of his mistakes with his incredible athleticism.

 

[Whiskeyjack]

Matt Hinton's Morning Bell:

• GODSPEED. As far as the rest of the country was concerned, there was really only one Notre Dame linebacker in 2012, but much of the optimism surrounding the Irish coming into 2013 was fueled by the return of all three of Manti Te'o's running mates from a defense that finished second nationally in points allowed. As of Saturday, that number is down to two after the abrupt retirement of senior Danny Spond for health-related reasons. Spond started the last eleven games as a junior, including the BCS title game, but suffered from migraines during the season and decided to call it quits after his body went numb on a hit during Saturday's practice.

Hadn't seen this reported anywhere yet. Very scary.

 

[T Town Tommy]

Hate to see anyone's career end this way. Will be praying for a full recovery for Spond. I am sure he would rather be on the field but I am positive he will find ways to contribute to the program in other ways. Good luck in the future young man.

 

[ThePiombino]

Matt Hinton's Morning Bell:



Hadn't seen this reported anywhere yet. Very scary.

Holy sh!t- scary indeed! Sorry to see things end this way for Danny.

 

[Irish Insanity]

Thought I read or heard somewhere that he showed up at practice walking with the help of a cane when he told the team.

Feel free to call me out if I'm late and its been said.

 

[Kak7304]

Thought I read or heard somewhere that he showed up at practice walking with the help of a cane when he told the team.

Feel free to call me out if I'm late and its been said.

I saw this as well and I think it was on twitter.

 

[KPENN]

Statement from Spond
Full statement from Danny Spond

“Hemiplegic migraines are a rare form of headache that present with temporary stroke-like symptoms, such as weakness and slurred speech,” said Notre Dame head football team physician Dr. Jennifer Malcolm, D.O. “Danny has suffered from a series of these migraines, but with medication, rehabilitation and a positive attitude he should avoid any long-term consequences. As there are no fully reliable predictors of hemiplegic migraines and ultimate prevention is extremely challenging, we fully support Danny.”

“My football playing career is over after suffering another paralyzing migraine early in fall camp,” said Spond. “I’ve received the best medical treatment and guidance possible. Unfortunately, an exact cause of these migraines remains undetermined, and in order to assure my overall well-being, I’m forced to walk away from the game with an extremely heavy heart.

“This has been an incredibly difficult time for me and my family, but by the Grace of God, we can find comfort in His greater plan. Being a man of God and an ambassador for his word, I have come to realize that in times of questioning His plan you have to let go and let God take over, and that is what I am doing. I’ve played this game my entire life, and losing it makes me feel as if I have lost something inside. But I find comfort in knowing my Lord will open the next chapter in my life and fill what’s been taken.

“I want to sincerely, from the bottom of my heart, thank each and every person who has supported me and my career at Notre Dame for their thoughts and prayers. You are the greatest people and fans in this world and make Notre Dame the most righteous University that I could ever represent; I love each and every one of you so very much. I promise to continue to give all I can to this University this year by coaching my position and providing senior leadership in all ways. You may no longer hear my name on the field, but I promise you, this is not the last you will hear of Danny Spond. With God, my family, and Notre Dame, I will persevere to do great things.”

 

[connor_in]

Statement from Spond
Full statement from Danny Spond

Godspeed Danny Spond

 

[Anchorman]

Sorry to see him have to give up football. Not only a great player but very possibly the best person on the team.

Am glad to see it's not something more serious/dangerous though.

 

[Irishman77]

What an amazing young man. What a bright future and fulfilling life Danny Spond has ahead of him.

 

[BobD]

Danny has always been the kind of kid that would make me think, if I had it to do all over again, I'd want to be just like him. I'm heartbroken that he won't be able to finish out his football career on the field, but he's a truly amazing and talented young man with a very bright future. You're the best Danny boy! See you in November.

 

[phgreek]

Danny has always been the kind of kid that would make me think, if I had it to do all over again, I'd want to be just like him. I'm heartbroken that he won't be able to finish out his football career on the field, but he's a truly amazing and talented young man with a very bright future. You're the best Danny boy! See you in November.

Amen.

 

[GATTACA!]

In an era of self centered media darlings like Maurice clarett Reggie bush Johnny football ect. ect. ect. all squandering away their opportunities, it is truly sad to see a great young man like spond have to end his football career like this. I hope nothing but the best for Danny.

 

[vmgsf]

Danny Spond you are a man, a Notre Dame man.

 

[EddytoNow]

Danny Spond is one of those rare people that ooze character and integrity. He exemplifies what the University of Notre Dame represents. It wouldn't surprise me to see him become a permanent member of the coaching staff. I, for one, would be proud to see him on the sidelines coaching for many years to come. The team and the university will always be a place Danny can call home.

 

[Kak7304]

Danny Spond is one of those rare people that ooze character and integrity. He exemplifies what the University of Notre Dame represents. It wouldn't surprise me to see him become a permanent member of the coaching staff. I, for one, would be proud to see him on the sidelines coaching for many years to come. The team and the university will always be a place Danny can call home.

I could definitely see him being a coach considering his biggest strength was playing disciplined assignment football within the scheme. It shows me he has great knowledge for the game, now it's just time to see how that translates into teaching the game.

 

[Old Man Mike]

May the Road rise up to meet you, and the Wind be always at your back... God bless you, young Warrior. Your injury makes me very sad. Your soul makes me proud.

 

[fitz_bu47]

May the Road rise up to meet you, and the Wind be always at your back... God bless you, young Warrior. Your injury makes me very sad. Your soul makes me proud.

Well said. Good luck Danny Spond, we need more of you in this world.

 

[RuntheBall]

Well said. Good luck Danny Spond, we need more of you in this world.

I'm hurt Coach. I'm not dead.

 

[dublinirish]

Making the Tough Decision - UND.COM - University of Notre Dame Official Athletic Site

 

[Bogtrotter07]

Danny has long been one of my favorite guys!