White Staunchly Defends His Final Football Season at Crespi

Russell White heard the whispers all season and the doubts stuck to him like a persistent linebacker. Even his All-American moves failed to free him from criticism.

But that seemed to be the problem. Critics wondered where his All-American moves went. “What’s wrong with Russell?” went the refrain. In a season that the Crespi High All-American running back admitted was tinged with disappointment, White’s quickness, toughness and desire were questioned.

“All that stuff just seemed to be in the air the whole season,” White said Wednesday. “It was a frustrating season because I didn’t accomplish my goals, but I didn’t let the doubters get to me.”

Still, the 17-year-old senior admits that some of his toughest hits in 1988 came off the field. White might have had a disappointing season but only by the standards he set for himself. He rushed for 1,379 yards in 221 carries, added 529 yards on 43 receptions and scored 25 touchdowns. He finished his 3-year career as the state record-holder in rushing (5,998), touchdowns (94) and points (568).

White still is assured of a scholarship to the college of his choice--USC and Notre Dame lead the pack with Southern Cal holding a slight advantage. Rounding out his top 5 are Cal, Penn State and Washington. White said that he will visit all 5 but won’t make his first trip until the first of the year. The signing date is Feb. 8.

The tone of his season--which ended Friday with a 41-21 loss to Servite--was set when he injured his left ankle before the opener. He admits he played much of the season tentatively. White can understand the doubts about his speed, but insinuations that he lacks toughness and desire angered him.

“No heart. That one really bugged me. I feel like if you need someone for something that matters, I’m your guy. And I didn’t like hearing about me not being tough. I thought I already proved that when I was a sophomore,” he said.

“This was not a great year, not a fascinating year. It was just an average year. But I feel great about myself. There’s nothing wrong with Russell White. I feel like I’ve made my mark.”