A high school football player from Kentucky, 17-year-old Andrew Dodson, sadly passed away a few days after sustaining a head injury during the final spring practice session. The Kentucky High School Athletic Association confirmed the news of his death, leaving the community in mourning.
“No words can explain, justify or rationalize tragedies such as these. We only ask for peace and comfort to all around him and around our great Commonwealth,” the KHSAA said. “We also encourage all to seek out family and friends to walk through this difficult time together and talk through all the emotions that come with losing a friend, brother, comrade, child and teammate.
“We know in the hours, days, weeks, months and years ahead we will continue to remember his fighting spirit and passion for all things Pulaski County, as well as his deeply held beliefs about his time on earth and following.
“We hold his family and his friends close in these times and offer our deepest condolences.”
In an interview with the Lexington Herald-Leader, Dodson’s father, Alan, referred to the incident as a freak accident.
“It was not a violent hit or helmet-to-helmet. It was a simple, clean tackle,” Alan Dodson said. “His head hit the turf, and Andrew suffered blunt-force trauma to the brain.”
“His head hit the turf, and Andrew suffered blunt-force trauma to the brain. He had a major surgery to relieve the pressure and has never awakened. He has been (fighting) for his life on total life support.”
Mark Stoops Offers Condolences to Dodson Family
Kentucky Wildcats football coach, Mark Stoops, joined others in sending condolences to the Dodson family. He shared on Twitter. Kentucky Football Player Dies.
“Our sympathies and prayers are with the family, friends and teammates of Andrew Dodson, a member of the Pulaski County football team. We are heartbroken by this tragedy and are deeply sorry for your loss.”
Community Mourns and Reflects on the Importance of Safety in Sports
We express our deepest regret for the unfortunate turn of events that led to the untimely passing of 17-year-old Andrew Dodson, a Kentucky high school football player. Kentucky Football Player Dies.
The community mourns his loss, as coaches, family, friends, and teammates come together to offer condolences and honor his memory.
This heart-wrenching incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical need to prioritize safety and vigilance in all sports activities.