Just days after collapsing during a football practice, Navy slotback Will McKamey passed away while being treated at Baltimore Shock Trauma at the young age of 19 years old. McKamey passed away while in a coma on Tuesday.
“During this most difficult of times, first and foremost, our prayers and thoughts turn to Randy, Kara and their beautiful family,” said Navy head coach Ken Niumatalolo in a statement. “Our deepest and most sincere condolences go out to their entire family and friends. As our Navy football family mourns the loss of one of our brothers, we also celebrate and honor his life. He loved his family, his friends and his teammates. The Brotherhood loves you! Keep the ball ‘high and tight’ in Heaven.”
The news of McKamey’s passing has already spread to a number of college football programs, who in turn have offered their sympathy to the Navy football program through the use of social media. Traditional rival Notre Dame and Pittsburgh each sent condolences via Twitter.
Our deepest sympathy to the family of Will McKamey, and the entire @NavyAthletics family. A candle will be lit at the Grotto in his memory.
— Notre Dame Football (@NDFootball) March 26, 2014
Our heartfelt condolences to the loved ones of Will McKamey & the entire @NavyAthletics family. Our thoughts & prayers are with you.
— Pitt Football (@GoPittFootball) March 26, 2014
McKamey had suffered from some brain issue before in his short football life. He was taken by helicopter to a medical treatment center after collapsing during a high school football game. Whether these injuries have anything to do with football may remain to be seen. If there is a tie to football, hopefully McKamey’s passing will help to learn more about what can be done to avoid another tragic loss of life for someone so young.
Photo credit: Navy Athletics
