Aisha Nozari
Tragedy struck at a New Jersey high school this week after a 16-year-old student lost his life.
Linden High School sophomore Xavier McClain passed away on Wednesday (21 September), two weeks after being injured on the football field.
McClain is thought to have suffered a traumatic brain injury on 9 September, shortly after the second half started.
According to NJ.com, McClain was returning a kickoff when he took a crushing hit.
In game footage captured on the day, an ambulance can be seen parking on the side of the pitch.
The teenager remained in a coma for two weeks at University Hospital before passing away.
McClain’s death was confirmed by Linden Mayor Derek Armstead, a close friend of the family.
Announcing his death in a social media post, Armstead wrote: “Together we prayed for a miracle and hoped for a different outcome. I trust that God knows better.
“With your prayers, Xavier fought a good fight. In the end, he succumbed to the injuries that he sustained a couple weeks ago while playing football during the LHS Tigers’ game vs Woodbridge.”
Armstead continued: “This news hurts because I have known his parents, Lisa and Norm, for years, Xavier and Andres, their two sons, since they were little boys. Tragically their worst fear came true.”
NJ.com said that Linden School District staff were informed of Xavier’s death on Thursday morning in an email from the superintendent.
A talented player, McClain was among just a handful of sophomores on the varsity squad who were given starting time, and the teenager even played as a freshman last year.
His death marks the second tragedy for Union County high school football this month.
On 8 September, 17-year-old Rahway High School senior, Ali Muhammad, died in his sleep and was later found by his father.
Rahway shared news of Muhammad’s death in a social media post that read: “It is with great sadness, and a heavy heart, that we are sharing the unfortunate passing of Rahway Senior football player, Ali Muhamad. Our hearts go out to the family during this tough time. You will forever be in our thoughts.”
The football club also shared a photo of Muhammad’s scuffed helmet.
McClain and Muhammad’s schools had played against each other in this season’s opener, however, Muhammad did not play in that game and died six days later.
His funeral was held yesterday (22 September).
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677