It is official; Mike Bellamy will not play for the Clemson Tigers this upcoming football season. Yesterday, it was made known publicly that the Tigers will go into the 2012 season without Bellamy. The reason for Bellamy's release from the team is said to be because he is academically ineligible.
In an interview Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney had nothing but positive things to say about Bellamy. Swinney acknowledged the improvements Bellamy made in the past few months, noted that he still had work to do, and wished him much success in his future.
Frankly, my opinion is torn on this matter. I think Mike Bellamy is a phenomenal athlete and plays a major role in Clemson’s success, however I am aware of the "trouble" he has had in the past with the team rules. This past season Bellamy was a true freshman out of Florida, but still managed to play 12 out of 14 games for the season. And not only did he play, he contributed to the points scored by the Tigers. That's impressive folks! But, he was sent home and not allowed to play in the ACC Championship game because of violating team rules. Because I am a big softy, a part of me wants him to have another chance to improve his grades and game play; but on the other hand I am a real stickler for the rules and that part of me has a "3 strikes you're out" mentality.
Bellamy plans to continue his higher learning and career at a junior college this summer. Like Coach Swinney, I wish him much success in his future endeavors.
Photo Courtesy of clemsontigers.com
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