West Central Tribune
Coach Jerry Kill is a true man of integrity, courage and commitment, who is always focused on what is best for the Gopher football program, first and foremost.
The University of Minnesota announced last week that Kill is extending his leave from the football program, in order to focus upon his treatment and better management of his epilepsy.
This extended leave likely was a difficult decision for Kill. It was and university officials, who have been pleased with the Gopher football program’s progress during Kill’s tenure.
Kill has missed parts of four games in three years as the Gopher coach, including suffering a seizure on the sideline at halftime of the Western Illinois game on Sept. 14, and missing the entire Michigan game following a seizure at home.
Kill has the disease of epilepsy. He is not alone, as nearly 3 million Americans live with the disease, according to the National Epilepsy Foundation. Other famous individuals living with epilepsy include actor Danny Glover, singer Neil Young and Supreme Court Justice John Roberts.
This extended leave is important for Kill to focus solely upon his own health and treatment for his epilepsy. His health is and should be the priority for him and his family.
Gopher football is in good hands with acting head coach Tracy Claeys and the rest of the staff. Kill’s staff have worked together for many years and are up to the challenge.
We join the rest of west central Minnesota wishing Kill all the best during this leave and look forward to his return to the sideline when he is ready.
