University of Hawaii running back Aofaga Wily is expected to retire from football because of medical reasons relating to a concussion suffered last year.

Wily is awaiting approval from doctors and administrators.

If the request is granted, Wily will remain on scholarship, but he will not count toward the Rainbow Warriors’ 85-scholarship limit for active players.

Wily was the state’s 2012 offensive player of the year as a Kahuku High senior. He rushed for 1,744 yards and 27 touchdowns in helping the Red Raiders to a 12-0 record and second consecutive Division I state title. He signed with UH in February 2013.

Wily played in the first two games as a true freshman last season, making one start at running back, before suffering a season-ending concussion. The condition eventually led to Wily withdrawing from school for the remainder of the 2013 fall semester.

Wily re-enrolled for the 2014 spring semester. He participated in spring training on a limited basis, and was excused from several practices because of headaches.

UH coach Norm Chow said Wily was one of the jewels of the 2013 recruiting class.

"We were very fortunate to get him," Chow said. "This is a tough situation."

But Chow and Wily’s family agreed that a medical retirement would be the best choice.

"His health is way more important than football," Chow said.

Chow cited the long-term problems former quarterback Jim McMahon incurred from concussions. Chow coached McMahon at BYU, and McMahon then played 15 seasons in the NFL.

"Jim McMahon is a perfect example," Chow said. "He’s a very close friend. I’ve known him forever. He’s in trouble now."

Wily and his wife have a 2-month-old child.

"It’s a hard decision," Chow said. "He’s a very competitive guy. We’re doing what’s best for him in the long haul. … There’s a whole lot of life to live after football."

Chow said he expects Wily to earn a degree.

"That’s going to be a must," Chow said. "I’ll make sure that happens."