Two Young Football Players Die Suddenly At Practice originally appeared on The Spun.
Two young football players have collapsed and died at practice ahead of the 2025 high school football season.
Football teams across the country, from the NFL level to the college football level to the high school level, are beginning to prepare for the 2025 season. Most teams are already in training camp, with preseason games set to begin for the NFL. High school and college football games will begin later in August.
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Teams are practicing in the heat, with temperatures reaching the low 100s. Hydrating and staying cool is paramount. Unfortunately, two young football players have collapsed and died at practice this month.
Ambulance at practice. Photographer: Bradley C. Bower/Bloomberg via Getty ImagesBloomberg/Getty Images
Tragedy in Memphis
In Memphis, Tennessee, a 16-year-old high school football player collapsed and died at practice.
Joshua Henderson, who played for Bolton High School, died after collapsing at practice. He collapsed in the heat during a preseason practice.
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“By the time I got there, he’s in the back of an ambulance, lethargic, unconscious, no eyes open and barely able to breathe,” his mother Angel Henderson said.
He is believed to have died from heat stroke.
“It is with broken hearts that we share the passing of our beloved Joshua. After bravely fighting for his life in the hospital, Josh transitioned 7/26 due to complications from organ failure caused by a severe heat stroke,” the family said.
“Josh was only 16 years old, full of life, laughter, and promise. He was deeply loved by his parents, siblings, extended family, and all who knew him. His sudden loss has left our hearts shattered and our world forever changed.”
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Another tragedy in Atlanta
In Atlanta, Georgia, a 15-year-old high school football player collapsed and died at practice.
MiKah King, 15, died unexpectedly at practice for Arabia Mountain High School in DeKalb County, Georgia.
The family released a statement on their sudden loss.
“His sudden loss has left an immeasurable void in the lives of everyone who knew and loved him,” said the family.
“Mikah was more than just a talented athlete. He was a spark — full of energy, compassion, and joy. Whether sprinting across the field, lifting spirits in the locker room, or cheering on his teammates, Mikah led with heart and humility. To his coaches, he was a natural leader. To his friends, he was family. And to his loved ones, he was a light that made every day brighter.”
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Dangers of practicing in the heat
It can be unavoidable at times, but there’s a reason most football teams don’t start playing games until late August or September – the heat.
Even in college football or the NFL, you’ll see players struggling in the warmer climates during games in August and September. Everyone loves outdoor football, but there’s a reason why most players and teams will prefer games indoor in air conditioned stadiums.
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Of course, that’s not really possible at the high school level, but these tragedies continue to show how important it is for schools to properly hydrate, rest and take care of their student athletes, especially in the summer.
Our thoughts are with their friends and family members.
Two Young Football Players Die Suddenly At Practice first appeared on The Spun on Jul 30, 2025
This story was originally reported by The Spun on Jul 30, 2025, where it first appeared.