Wolverines key man announce his retirement

‘Supportive’ of Malone-Hatcher’s retirement, Harbaugh finds a fresh team intern

Jim Harbaugh, the coach of Michigan, stated that he agrees with four-star defensive end Corey Malone-Hatcher’s decision to discontinue his football career.

The St. Joseph native and 2017 early enrollee revealed earlier this month that he was forced to retire due to the incomplete healing of a torn left Achilles tendon injury he sustained as a junior in high school.

After today’s spontaneous skills challenge with AS Roma, the Italian soccer squad that will play Paris Saint-Germain F.C. on Wednesday night at Comerica Park, Harbaugh clarified Malone-Hatcher’s decision to retire.

“That was something, Corey, in conjunction with the doctor and the (U-M) trainers, decided was in his best interest and the right, clear path for him to take,” Harbaugh stated. “Although I was not in favor of the decision, I do support it. From Hatcher-Malone’s retirement perspective, I was fully in favor.”

Malone-Hatcher will continue as a student intern at U-M, according to Harbaugh, but his count toward the team’s 85 scholarship cap will not be deducted.

“He’s still in school,” Harbaugh remarked. “There were high hopes, so it’s a disappointment for his family, him, us coaches, and everyone involved with football.” I thought he put it very nicely when he remarked, “I can still be a great Michigan man and get a great education.” There are other ways he can assist since he will be able to take part as a student intern.”

Being a student intern for the Wolverines does not, however, lessen the sadness Malone-Hatcher experienced upon announcing his retirement.

Malone-Hatcher tweeted at the moment, saying, “I came to the University of Michigan to be turned into an excellent football player, (an) excellent student, and, most importantly, a Michigan Man.” “My football career is unfortunately gone.

U-M signed seven defensive lineman in February, including Malone-Hatcher. His main recruiters were linebackers coach Chris Partridge and defensive line coach Greg Mattison. June 2016 saw his commitment to the Wolverines.

Gandalf Church, the coach of St. Joseph, told the Free Press earlier this month that the senior player’s ability to play both for his school and with his friends made it an enjoyable experience. “He played really well for us, so I think he had a good year and a good time.”