American football is perhaps the most popular sport in the United States – but also one of the most dangerous with players enduring hours of grueling practice and countless injuries.
The risks of the sport are well known with many players suffering from concussions and traumatic brain injuries.
Dylan Thomas dreamed of playing college football from a young boy, but this dream was cut short. During a match with his Georgia High School, the unthinkable happened.
The Glynn Academy Terrors sends our deepest sympathy to the family of Dylan Thomas and the Pike County High School family. We pray for your entire community as you grieve the loss of Dylan Thomas.
Posted by Glynn Academy Football on Monday, October 1, 2018
Hundreds of thousands of teenagers dream of a life as a professional player in the world’s top league for American football, NFL. But competition is tough and it takes a lot of work to get there.
The few who succeed earn huge amounts of money and become idols for millions of people. But beyond the fame and the money there is a harsh reality for some players, who are all aware of the risks.
The 16-year-old was taken to hospital after he collapsed
Dylan, who played as a junior inside linebacker at Pike County High School, in Georgia, was playing against Peach County when he fell to the floor and complained to a first responder that he had no feeling in his leg.
Dylan was helped off the field. According to Steve Fry, a first responder and the mayor of Williamson, Dylan fell off the sideline bench, CNN reported. When the boy woke up, he said “I can’t feel my body,” and passed out again.
The 16-year-old was taken to WellStar Spalding Regional Hospital first before being transferred to Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta. He underwent surgery to relieve brain swelling and he remained in a coma on Saturday before passing away from his injuries on Sunday night.
The doctor reveals the cause of death
According to CNN the 16-year-old’s death has been ruled an accident, a statement said. Dylan’s cardiac arrest was the result of “traumatic brain injury due to or as a consequence of a closed head injury.”
Thomas’ uncle, Nick Burgess, posted a tribute to his nephew saying Dylan was the golden child in the family adding he, “really brought the family together.”
Mr. Burgess also created a Facebook fundraiser to cover the medical costs and lost income for the family, which has surpassed the target of $30,000 and currently stands at over $50,000.
The clip below shows the opposing team and Dylan’s former team gathering to honor Dylan in a very beautiful joint gesture.
This is a terrible tragedy. Our thoughts go out to this boy’s family. Rest in peace Dylan.
