A college football star in Ohio, USA, tragically passed away from « natural causes » during a pick-up basketball game. He was 20 years old. The Zanesville Times Recorder claim that Jeremy Michael, a sophomore attending Muskingum University in New Concord, Ohio, collapsed while playing basketball with friends on campus.
While an official cause of death has not been disclosed, a school official told the outlet that the student athlete died « from natural causes on Tuesday evening. « The Muskingum University campus community is grieving the loss of Jeremy Michael, » they said. « Our campus is offering support and reaching out to all of those impacted by this loss. We are holding Jeremy’s family and friends close in our thoughts. »
Michael excelled as a defensive lineman for two seasons at Muskingum whilst also being a member of the Manhood, Achievement, Christian Character, Education (M.A.C.E.) fraternity. « Jeremy’s presence touched many across our campus community, » the university said in an official statement.
« Our thoughts, prayers, and heartfelt sympathies are with Jeremy’s family, friends, teammates, and all who knew and loved him. »
Following Michael’s death, countless tributes flooded in from those who knew him. Taking to social media on Wednesday, Muskingum head football coach Matt Nardo wrote: « My heart aches for his family.
« Last night our football family lost a brother. My thoughts are with his family and loved ones. He will always be with us! Family over everything! »
Michael’s former coach, Bryan Morgan of North Ridgeville High School, remembered him as an upbeat team member who consistently brought smiles to his peers’ faces.
« He was one of those guys who not only would have a smile but put a smile on everyone else’s face, as well, » Morgan shared with The Chronicle-Telegram.
Amy Esser, the girls basketball coach at North Ridgeville who worked alongside Michael in the high school’s leadership programmes, echoed this sentiment, describing him as « was just an all-around sweetheart, just an unbelievable kid.
« He was an unbelievable athlete but an even better human being. He made everyone around him better. He was always in a good mood, always had a smile on his face.
« Jeremy was the type of student you just dreamed to have around. He represented our school and our community in such a positive light. »
A GoFundMe campaign set up to assist Michael’s mother, Heather, with funeral costs has raised over £26,000 at the time of writing.
« Jeremy was a kind, fun, and athletic young man who enjoyed playing all different sports and hanging with his buddies, many of whom have been friends with him since grade school, » said Wendy Reisner, a family friend who organised the GoFundMe. « Anyone that knows Jeremy knows he was a wonderful kid and a good friend.
« Jeremy touched so many lives with his warmth, humor, and generosity, and his absence will be deeply felt by everyone who knew him. »
This article first appeared on Mirror US.
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