Sadly, tragedy has hit the college football community yet again.
Troy confirmed in a press release that Trojans football player Nathan Harris has passed away due to injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident earlier Saturday. Harris was just 19 years old.
Other than the accident occurred in Gulf Shores, Ala., no details were made available.
“This is an unthinkable tragedy and the thoughts and prayers of the Troy Athletics Department and the Troy University community are with Nathan’s family and friends,” Troy athletic director Jeremy McClain said in a statement. “It is devastating to see a young life end in such a heartbreaking way, and we will provide support and comfort for his teammates, friends and coaches as they go through the grieving process.”
“Nate was a tremendous person and a very caring young man,” a statement from Troy head coach Neal Brown said began. “While his time here at Troy University was brief, his impact was felt by many. He was loved by his teammates and had a positive effect on our team’s culture in a short time.”
Harris, who starred as a quarterback at Gulf Shores High School, joined the Troy football team as a walk-on this past semester. During the course of spring practice, Harris had worked his way up to being the Trojans’ starting holder. He was listed as a safety on the school’s online roster.
The sudden passing is hitting the Gulf Shores community particularly hard.
“We are struggling here,” Harris’ high school coach, Ben Blackmon, told WALA-TV, adding, “He has gone to live with God.”
Our thoughts, prayers and condolences go out to all of those impacted by Harris’ passing.