April 14, 2009
(San Diego, CA) - USD All-America running back J.T. Rogan (Coronado, CA) has been granted a sixth year of eligibility by the NCAA after missing almost the entire 2008 season because of a left knee injury. Rogan, the school's all-time leading rusher, suffered a season-ending knee injury in the first quarter of USD's 2008 home opener against Marist on August 29th. Rogan, who redshirted his freshman year back in 2004, had to file for medical and hardship waivers to receive the sixth year. He received the good news on April 7th from Brent LeVasseur, USD Academic Counselor/Compliance Coordinator.
"I am excited that JT has been granted a sixth year of eligibility," said 3rd-year head coach Ron Caragher. "His injury at the time appeared to be a tragic ending to an outstanding career. Now he will get the chance to finish on a higher note. JT is an all-purpose type player as he contributes in so many ways - as a runner, blocker, receiver, and returner. Having cleared the first hurdle of being granted a sixth year, his next task will be to return to full health through rehabilitation and conditioning. His addition to our team will enhance an already strong group of running backs returning for us."
In last year's season-opening 40-22 win over Marist, Rogan was off to a great start to his senior year with 46 yards rushing on 3 attempts; 1 touchdown reception for 29 yards and a 36-yard kickoff return before leaving the game late in the first quarter. He'll enter the 2009 campaign as the program's all-time leader in rushing yards (3,013), touchdowns (47) and all-purpose yardage (5,344).
"Obviously I'm pretty excited to be in the close-knit Torero football family and thrilled to be back with the guys and competing with them for one more year," said JT Rogan. "The most exciting part for me is the camaraderie that I get to continue to enjoy with all of my friends on the team."
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In 2007 Rogan was named first team FCS All-America and led the nation in kickoff returns. As a running back in 2007, he rushed for 1,021 yards and 10 TDs, while catching 30 balls for seven TDs. Rogan is rehabbing and working hard with the hopes of a return for fall camp in early August.
"After I got my second surgery in the beginning of February, that is when my rehab really started to take-off," added Rogan. "Each week it feels like it is getting better and better and stronger and stronger. I'm running and now able to do a lot of things that are progressing along the rehab process. I'm optimistic, and don't think there is any reason why I can't be ready for the first day of camp, and be better than last year, no less."
The team breaks spring camp with an intrasquad game April 25th at 11 a.m. at Torero Stadium. USD fall camp will begin on August 12th, with USD's season opener slated for September 5th at Azusa Pacific.
