Brian Hartline's 2004 football season ended just before halftime today. While returning a punt, Hartline broke the tibia and fibula bones in his leg.
This update is being written in response to 90% of what's being inaccurately written on the various Internet sites about the injury. I was on the GlenOak sideline, not far from the hit, and it was obvious that it was serious. I was at the hospital with Brian's family immediatly after the injury occurred. Brian suffered a clean break and was awaiting surgery to insert a rod into his leg.
Brian's career is not in jeopardy. Brian's scholarship to the Ohio State University is still intact. His leg was broken, but his spirit cannot be. I talked with him prior to surgery, and this kid is talking rehab right now. He has no time for self pity or feeling sorry for himself. He comes from a strong family, and his parents, Dale and Lori, deserve a lot of credit for raising three wonderful children.
Expect to see Brian on the GlenOak sideline, serving as an assistant coach as soon as doctors allow it. He'll run track in the spring, and I expect to see him finishing first in one or more events at the state meet. The next time we will see Brian on the football field will be in the 'Shoe, where I'm predicting he will not only start, but star at OSU.
It has been said that a man's character is often revealed through adversity, and today, through an injury, I was able to see how a champion responded to adversity. Ohio State football fans are going to love Brian Hartline.