Furman defensive tackle Bryce Stanfield collapsed on the field during practice Wednesday morning and is suffering what is being described as a “medical emergency.”
The 21-year-old man was rushed to the hospital and placed on life support. He passed away Friday surrounded by his friends and family. After his death, Furman President Dr. Elizabeth Davis awarded him the Bachelor of Science degree in Health Sciences.
Furman coach Clay Hendricks released a statement expressing his “heartbroken thoughts” over his player’s death.
We are heartbroken beyond measure by the sudden passing of Bryce, and first and foremost we would like to extend our deepest condolences to his parents, Fred and Terry Stanfield, and their families on this day and in the days to come. Please call me out in your prayers.
There are many other people who are really hurting. Specifically, Bryce’s teammates, coaches and staff, classmates, friends, and the entire Furman community and beyond. Bryce was an excellent young man, an equally excellent student, football player, and friend. He is deeply involved in who we are as a program and as a school, and his success on the football field and the time he dedicates to his service to the community have played a vital role in our success. Ta. In every sense of the word, he was our best representative. His death is one of the most difficult events Furman football has ever encountered, but our faith and the many wonderful memories Bryce gave us will continue to be with us all in the days to come. helps support.
“Stanfield was twice named to the Southern Conference Academic Honor Roll. He served in the Heller Service Corps “Men of Distinction” in Furman, visited patients at Greenville Children’s Hospital, and worked with local schools to teach children “He read it aloud to the students,” the Associated Press reported. report.
“Bryce was a beautiful soul, a loving son, a loyal friend, a great teammate, and a great student,” said Furman Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics Jason Donnelly. “We are grateful for the outpouring of love and prayers from the entire community. Bryce will be greatly missed and will forever be remembered in our hearts.”
A Furman Palidians helmet rests on an equipment trunk during an NCAA football game between the North Carolina State Wolfpack and Furman Palidians at Carter-Finley Stadium on September 16, 2017 in Raleigh, North Carolina. NC State defeated Furman 49-16. (William Howard/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Stanfield, a native of Acworth, Georgia, planned to become a dentist after graduation.
“[Stanfield] “He played in all 13 games for Furman last fall, recording 13 tackles and 2 1/2 sacks, helping the Paladins go 10-3 and win the Southern Conference championship,” the Associated Press reported.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
