HS FOOT: Top running back leaves Birmingham

Tashawn White, a returning All-West Valley League running back who rushed for more than 1,000 yards as a junior for Birmingham of Lake Balboa, has left the school.

"Tashawn checked out, and I haven't heard from him and don't know what he's doing or where he is going to end up," coach Jim Rose said.

White's departure is a big blow because he was expected to be the team's top player this coming season.

"Basically, we need to find a running back and a quarterback," Rose said.

Rose plans to give a long look to running back Taj Wheeler, who moved up to the varsity as a freshman last season. Birmingham figures to build around Daniel Williams, a tight end/defensive end.

-- Gerry Gittelson