White to Miss Opener Because of Ankle Injury

Crespi High tailback Russell White said Thursday that he will not play in the Celts’ opener tonight against visiting Redlands because of a slightly sprained left ankle he suffered Wednesday during practice.

“I’m not even going to suit up,” White said. “I’m going out there bareback.”

White, a consensus All-American, injured the ankle while trying to catch a pass. “I was going up and I just came down on it wrong,” he said. “It just needs a little rest.

“It’s nothing to worry about. The coach just said I shouldn’t push it. I’d rather sit out this game than have to miss the next five.”

Crespi Coach Bill Redell could not be reached for comment. Paul Muff, the school’s athletic director, said that team trainer Larry Cummings considered White “doubtful” for tonight’s 7:30 game.

“Larry treated him last night and before practice today,” Muff said Thursday. “It’s hard to tell on those things, but when I left, it looked pretty doubtful.”

White did not practice Thursday but insisted he will return to practice “no later than Wednesday.” White said he will play next Friday against Palmdale.

“I’ll just set my program back a couple of days,” he said. “I’m not disappointed. Things happen. I can’t sit around and mope about it.”