June 26, 2008

UCLA redshirt sophomore offensive tackle Sean Sheller will miss the 2008 football season due to injuries suffered in a vehicle accident last Friday.

An MRI showed that Sheller's left knee sustained a tear of the anterior cruciate ligament and the medial collateral ligament. Surgery to reconstruct the ACL and repair the MCL will be scheduled at a later date. His left ankle also sustained a wound which is being treated on a daily basis to prevent infection.

"Our hearts go out to Sean and his family," said head coach Rick Neuheisel. "The young man is devastated. I am confident that his surgery will go well and he will come back better than ever."

"It really hasn't hit me that I won't be able to play this year," said Sheller. "I am anxious to have the surgery so that I can begin my rehab and get back with my teammates as soon as possible."

Sheller was the projected starter at right tackle.

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Pre-season practice will begin on Tuesday, August 5. According to NCAA rules, the first two days (Tuesday and Wednesday) must be without pads (helmet only). The players may wear helmets and shoulder pads on the third and fourth days (Thursday and Friday). Saturday, August 9 will be the first day in full pads and Sunday, August 10 will be the first day with two practices.

The practices on August 5 through August 8 will begin at 3:00 pm. on Spaulding Field.

A complete schedule will be posted when finalized.

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Fans attending the Sept. 1 football opener versus Tennessee will be treated to a fireworks show following the contest. The game is scheduled for 5:00 pm and will be televised nationally by ESPN.