An 18-year-old college football player has died after collapsing during a workout earlier this week. Parker Sutherland, a tight end for the University of Northern Iowa, was participating in a routine practice with teammates when he suddenly collapsed.
Northern Iowa head coach Todd Stepsis described Sutherland as embodying "everything we look for in a UNI Football Panther," citing his talent, potential, character, humility, toughness, and genuine love for others. "His character, humility, toughness and genuine love of others are what champions are made of," Stepsis stated.
Director of Athletics Megan Franklin added, "We are devastated - just devastated. The blessing is that we have a Panther family who will hold the Sutherland family, our football team, and our athletics staff close as we grieve."
Sutherland, a freshman, had played in four games and was a standout three-sport athlete in high school. He embraced the opportunity to represent the University through sport.
A memorial service was held for Sutherland, with "hundreds" of attendees. His father remembered him as a person focused on simple joys: eating, sleeping, and spending time with friends, along with building Legos.