Dane Uperesa turns down the 49ers and retires from football

About how he decided to retire from football after spending the past 2 seasons on the Bengals' and Colts' practice rosters, Uperesa said:
"It was something I was thinking about for a while. Football was always a vehicle for me." (HA)

HA Note: "The San Francisco 49ers recently made former UH offensive lineman Dane Uperesa an offer he could refuse. The 49ers wanted to sign Uperesa to their practice squad with the hope of adding him to the full offseason roster. But Uperesa politely — everything he does is respectful — turned down that offer. He also had turned down other offers from NFL teams."

About how he tried the NFL but decided on doing something else, Uperesa said:
"I’d be happier trying to live life in the real world." (HA)

HA Note: "Uperesa’s fiancee is in dental school at Creighton University in Omaha. He has moved to Nebraska, and plans to pursue a master’s degree at the University of Nebraska-Omaha."

About moving to Nebraska to earn a master's degree, Uperesa said:
"I wanted it to be a decision made completely by myself. Football was always a way to get things I wanted. I got a great education (at UH), and I had the best five years of my life (there). I met some great people. I had a ton of fun. Now it’s over. I’m ready to move on. I’m very happy." (HA)