Zona Zealots has been following Justin Holt and his journey since his senior season in high school. This week he received news no one wants to hear.
A local talent, Justin Holt graduated from Salpointe Catholic High School in Tucson in 2015, and committed to following in is his father Julius Holt’s (linebacker 1981-1982) footsteps and play football for the University of Arizona. He grew up with his father’s teammates and is very close to both Lamont and Ricky Hunley. A defensive tackle weighing 319 pounds, he waited all last season to show Wildcats fans his heart and skill on the football field while wanted to contribute and help the Wildcats to a winning season.
Justin Holt is one of those young men you meet and know immediately he was raised by loving, respectful and supportive parents. He is joyful and joyous about life, loves his family and friends. The way he approached and played the game he loves so much is admirable.
Truly Blessed 🙏🏾🔥 #BEARDOWN pic.twitter.com/h6R1iIsOvQ
— JustinHolt (@jholt_91_) August 21, 2016
Playing for Arizona Football was something Justin had always dreamed of, it is in his blood, he never looked at another school, Arizona was his first choice. Fortunately, he will be a Wildcat, but just as Ray Smith, Holt will be a Wildcat cheering from the sidelines while continuing his college career.
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Here is the official statement from the Holt Family:
“It is with heavy hearts that we acknowledge Justin’s official medical retirement from football. Complications from concussions, which occurred during practices last season, are the reason for this retirement. He still continues to have symptoms and can not be medically cleared.
After meetings with the coaching, medical, and training staff and much thought on his part, Justin came to the conclusion that the risk of further injury was not worth the risk for his future health and happiness. A medical retirement allows him to remain on scholarship for four years and receive the same benefits he would’ve received as an athlete.
We would like to thank everyone for reaching out with the kind and supportive words. A special thank you is also deserved to those of you that we’re part of Justin’s journey to earn his Division I scholarship, this includes everyone that coached and cheered him on.
This is not how we envisioned Justin’s college journey to begin, but we are at peace with his decision because his health is what is most important. Justin is taking on his new reality with determination and maturity, just wanting to work hard and earn his Journalism degree. With love and blessings, The Holt Family.”
Read more about Justin: Arizona Football Commit: Defensive Tackle Justin Holt is All Heart
At Zona Zealots, our hearts go out to Justin and his family. If Justin approaches his life and his college studies the way he played football, then along with all of his very close friends and family and your fans, we are positive he will be very successful no matter what he wants to do. Bear Down Justin! We send you our Wildcats support and love, you are still truly blessed, keep smiling that brilliant smile of yours!