Jul 25, 2018Two Athlete Deaths
As preseason practices get underway, two student-athlete deaths have been reported, one at Federal Way (Wash.) High School and another at the University of Maine.
According to Q13 Fox, a student-athlete at Federal Way (Wash.) High School collapsed and died after participating in a summer conditioning workout in 90 degree weather. The school did not disclose the athlete’s name, gender, age, or sport.
The school sent a letter to parents announcing the athlete’s death and expressing condolences to the family.
“We have protocols and procedures in place to ensure student safety during summer workouts,” the letter said. “Over the next 72 hours, we will be suspending all outdoor athletic activities at the middle and high schools to closely verify and examine the protocols we have in place.”
The Bangor Daily News reported that Darius Minor, an 18-year-old football player for the University of Maine, collapsed and died on Tuesday, during a preseason workout.
The day was humid, with temperatures in the low 80s, and the players were participating in a supervised light freshman workout. Paramedics failed to resuscitate Minor, and the cause of his death was unknown as of Tuesday night.
Minor is believed to be the first UMaine player to die during workouts since the team was founded in 1896
“Words cannot express the grief we have following this tragic loss,” Joe Harasymiak, head football coach for UMaine, said. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to Darius’ family and friends during this terrible time.”
