Last Thursday redshirt junior kicker Kyle French announced via Facebook that he will retire from football after this season, ending his career as a Badger a year short. The full post reads:
"I want to personally thank everyone who has supported me throughout my career in football. The coaches have asked me to forgo my senior season and focus on my career outside of football after this season. It has been a great ride, a time I'll never forget, and I'm excited for what is to come!"
French also sent out a tweet saying, “It was a mutual agreement that was best for everyone.”
According to French’s LinkedIn profile, he is pursuing a double major in personal finance and economics and is set to graduate after the spring 2014 semester.
French is also the only kicker on scholarship, and the announcement means Andersen is now able to offer the 2014 class’ kicking recruits some money.
Sophomore Jack Russell took over the role of kicker after French’s 38-yard missed field goal against Northwestern Oct. 12, leaving French at 5-for-8 on the season and 18-of-29 in his career for Wisconsin. He also missed one extra point this year against Tennessee Tech Sept. 7.
Head coach Gary Andersen discussed the situation in his press conference Monday.
