Unfortunately some sad and sobering news has surfaced this Mother’s Day regarding a Div. 1-A football player.
The University of Idaho confirmed to Brian Murphy of the Idaho Statesman that Vandals wide receiver Ken McRoyal has passed away in California. There were no details available as to what led to the player’s death or the circumstances surrounding it.
“At this time our thoughts and prayers are with Ken’s family,” Idaho athletic director Rob Spear wrote to Murphy in a text message.
In his first season with the Vandals after transferring from the JUCO ranks, McRoyal played in eight games and caught six passes for 35 yards.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to McRoyal’s family, friends and teammates as they come to grips with this tragedy.
(Photo credit: Idaho athletics)
UPDATED 2:21 p.m. ET: Idaho head coach Robb Akey has released a statement on McRoyal’s passing.
“It’s a devastating loss. We’ve lost a brother, a teammate, a family member. But, more importantly, a momma lost her son today. All of our prayers go to the family – that they can be strong in their healing from this tragedy.”