Sadly, the heartbreak of yet another way-too-early death of a college football player is being felt on yet another college campus.
Cal officials confirmed Friday afternoon that defensive end Ted Agu died this morning after being rushed to a local hospital. The Contra Costa Times is reporting that “Agu collapsed during a conditioning run and died at a local hospital.”
The school did not give any details surrounding Agu’s passing, requesting in a press release for people to "[p]lease bear with us as we work to inform personally those closest to Ted; we will provide more information as it becomes available.”
Agu, a rising fifth-year senior, was just 21 years old.
“This is a very difficult time for our football family, said head coach Sonny Dykes in a statement. “Ted was a remarkable young man and a member of this family who was highly respected and loved by his teammates and coaching staff. He had an incredible passion for life and will be deeply missed.”
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to Ted’s family,” athletic director Sandy Barbour said. “This is a very painful time for the entire Cal family; in the days and weeks ahead, my focus will be on providing every member of our community the support and information they need to get through this time. I would ask that media please respect and understand how this tragedy is impacting Ted’s family, his teammates, friends and the members of our campus community. We will get through this together.”
Our thoughts, prayers and condolences go out to Agu’s family, friends, teammates and coaches for their tragic loss.
(Photo credit: Cal athletics)