September 9, 2024
Two more recent deaths of high school football players are adding to a disturbing and deadly trend that has prompted school officials and parents to call for more safety measures for the popular sport.
A high school senior at Port St. Joe High School in Florida’s panhandle died after collapsing during the school’s Friday night game, the superintendent told multiple outlets.
Chance Gainer, who played wide receiver and defensive back for his school’s team, had just turned 18 and was an honors student, according to NBC News affiliate WJHG.
“He was a remarkable athlete, a beloved teammate, and an overall exceptional young man who loved Jesus. Chance was quiet but exuded captivating warmth and genuineness that drew people to him,” said Gulf District Schools Superintendent Jim Norton in a media statement, asking for thoughts and prayers for Gainer’s family.
A GoFundMe created for Gainer’s family described him as having a smile you could see from across the room.
Gainer’s cause of death has not been released.
Last week, a student at a Los Angeles-area high school died after he was recently injured in a football game, according to the school’s principal.
The Los Angeles Times reported Christopher Garcia, who was a 16-year-old at South East High, was injured while making a tackle during his team’s game on Aug. 23.
He immediately received medical assistance and was transported to a local hospital after the play, The Los Angeles Times reported.
Garcia is remembered on a GoFundMe page created to help his family as “a vibrant and passionate young man who brought joy and energy to everyone around him” and “a loving son, sibling, and a loyal friend.”