It’s been a good run – perhaps the best by any rusher in NU history. And yet, Damien Anderson’s announcement that his Wildcats career is over leaves a bitter taste of disappointment. With his Heisman Trophy hopes dashed, his shoulder needing surgery, his team’s season in tatters and his NFL prospects dimmed, Anderson departs under a cloud.

But despite all the gloom, Anderson managed to bow out with the same modesty and integrity that have become his hallmark at NU. Whether facing heady success or staggering disappointment, he remained the consummate team player. When his stellar 2000 season had sportswriters, Heisman voters and NFL scouts buzzing, and when he failed to replicate that success this season, he kept his head. While other All-Americans jumped early to the NFL, leaving their teams in the lurch, he stayed committed to NU and his teammates.

“I’ve been playing the game since I was six years old,” he told The Daily in April. “And if I get hurt, that’s in God’s control. I’m just going out there and playing every day.”

And although such an injury did intervene, cutting short a surprisingly mediocre senior season, we’re glad Anderson stuck with the team. We applaud his commitment, admire his work ethic and appreciate his sacrifice. Now, as he looks beyond NU, we can only wish him well and hope that his impending surgery leaves him healthy enough to succeed in the NFL.

Thanks for the ride, D.A.