Spartans RB reinstated
Michigan State running back Glenn Winston is being given something college athletes pray for when they get in trouble with the law: a second chance.
The sophomore, who spent 180 days in jail after pleading guilty to misdemeanor aggravated assault and misdemeanor assault and battery, was allowed to rejoin the team on Wednesday. impressed head coach Mark Dantonio with his maturity and hard work to maintain his academic eligibilty throughout the ordeal. Michigan State athletic director Mark Hollis publicy supported his coach’s decision to reinstate Winston.
Though you’ll never hear a coach or school official say it, it’d be naive to discount Winston’s importance to the team as a factor in the school’s decision to allow his return. Winston is the team’s best kickoff returner, and with the graduation of workhorse running back Javon Ringer, he’s likely to see his role in the backfield increase dramatically.
Regardless of the reason for Michigan State’s decision, lets hope Winston is truly remorseful and has grown as a result of the experience. For his sake he’d better have, because it’s likely that the second chance will be his last.
